planning.

Reducing the size of the things in your life takes work.  Deciding how to pare down your chattels into 5’ x 8’ of space is just plain difficult.  It would make sense that filling a backpack from the remainder would be trivial, unfortunately the “stuff” you need to live on upon your return generally isn’t at all good for travel.

When I was first planning this trip my mind somehow equated “plan for all climates” with “camping supplies” and I started out with a cart full of emergency whistles and waterproof matches.  Once the alcohol wore off I realized I needed a better plan.

ASSUMPTIONS, LIVING

1. Series of short-term sublets.  A tour of Craigslist, if you will.
2. Hostels only if they have lockable boxes.
3. Reliable internet connection within a reasonable walk.

Goals!  Goals are great.  Without goals we’d have no reasons to make lists, and oh my gosh I love writing lists.

GOALS, A LIST

1. Staying Healthy
2. Staying Sane
3. Laptop Safety
4. Getting Out

REALITIES, A LESS ENJOYED LIST

1. Working requires Work Stuff.
2. Thieves love Work Stuff.
3. Cold in North, hot in South.

LUCKY BREAKS, AN EXCUSE FOR A LIST

1. Laptop is a wee 12” workhorse.
2. Mutant height allows for multiple bag-carrying options.
3. Stores exist in other places so enough with the lists.

Goals were set and I went about purchasing miniature versions of EVERYTHING I’VE ALREADY BOUGHT.  I amassed a pile of eligibility in order to make sure all of my bases were covered.

Lesson learned: I can’t physically carry a full set of covered bases.