Suggestions, musings

As this blog has been taking shape, some readers have made some excellent suggestions, such as adding a map widget to follow our progress - look to the left, Noelito. (Spoiler alert: it will show Louisiana for another 2 weeks). Please, please, please keep sending suggestions, from website stuff to travel tips, even campfire cooking recipes. This trip is pretty much constantly on my mind so any trip talk is very welcome!


My obsession with this trip has brought up some interesting thoughts. When I first came up with the idea of an extended moto-camping trip, it was really just a "I need to get away for a while" spark of insanity. No real plan or objective. But every day, as we get closer to our departure day (aka our d-day), I find myself looking forward to it on a different level. I've always imagined every one of us (yes, you included) having that "epic adventure" they've always wanted to take, whether to
the Serengeti or to Savannah, GA. Something that will challenge them, see what they're made of. Over the years, I've hit a few of those. Yes, a few. Stubborn person that I am, one was not enough.


In my early 20s, after some personal problems, I joined the Navy. That was my first "test-my-mettle" challenge. Over time, I've had some others, what I call my mid-life crises (yes, crises, as in plural). I seem to have a mid-life crisis every 5 years or so, since my "midlife" age keeps going up. In fact, at this rate, I'll reach "middle age" in my early 60s. But this is the first time where I am testing myself in such a large scope. 


I will be leading the pack, so to speak, and I will be responsible for alerting the others of any hazardous road conditions. I usually do this when Dennis and I ride together, but now the girls are involved and I need to be even more alert. Good thing I no longer wear glasses! Oh, wait. Let me clarify. I no longer need to wear glasses. I can see fine. Trust me!


I also will be spending a lot of time on the saddle. I've done some long rides but only for a day or two, then get home and relax. This time, the physical demands, day in and day out.... well, let's just say I'm as unsure about my abilities as I was on my first day of boot camp. Hm, maybe I should join a gym... Y'all think I can get in shape in 2 weeks? Never mind. I can almost hear your laughter from here!


The physical and mental demands of this trip are becoming more real with each passing day. And, as crazy as it sounds, I'm looking forward to it like.... like.... my sons for the next Assassin's Creed?.... a Publisher's Clearing House winner for the knock at the door?.... a "Firefly" fan for "Serenity 2"? (Yes, I still have hope!)


All that off my chest, I'm asking you guys for any and every suggestion you have. Who knows? Maybe I'll post a photo of your idea for starting a camp fire with gum wrappers and toenail clippings!