Planning the big trip

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We have spent years talking about this big trip we will take someday. A one year trip around the world. See all the sights. Learn how others live and view life. Learn new cultures. But how do we make this dream a reality?

About 2 years ago we started making this dream move forward. Basically that means working alot and trying to save money. We kept the dream alive with inspirational sayings and maps, maps and more maps plastered all over the walls of our place. Our home's decor best summarized by my Aunt Linda during one of her visits. 'What is with all the maps?' Another helpful way to keep a dream alive--tell people. Everyone. They help remind you if you forget. They keep you motivated. 'Weren't you going to take some big world tour?' or 'I new you wouldn't do it' (of course telling everyone does have it's drawbacks too) But it is all the comments combined. You need them all to spark you, remind you that you have a dream. Life is to be lived. Just do it. Make a plan and stick to it.

So we started setting dates. Then we started doing the things we needed to have done by those dates. Buying the gear, getting the shots, and the whole list of to do's. Then one day our tickets arrived. We couldn't believe it, all this time planning and wondering if we can make this happen. Now here is a piece of paper telling us our plans are coming together.

So we are going.

Well as of today's entry we actually still have 6 weeks before departure. But we are living in Hawaii and planning to move some of our 'stuff' to Mom's house in Indiana, free storage! But mostly we are just selling EVERYTHING. A move to and from Hawaii is very costly. You either spend alot of money to ship everything or you just buy all new things. So we opted to sell it all now and worry about getting things when we return from our trip. (Mom- we still have some boxes of priceless artifacts, there is still room right?)

Today we are making flyers for Crazy Marty's moving sale. Marty is working hard to sell all our things--Thanks Marty- I appreciate you. (Always have to let each other know) Marty is making a big sacrifice he is selling his beloved boat the Hoosier Honey also known as the Katleen. He has had many successful fishing trips. His last fishing trip he caught a 207 pound Marlin! What a great way to (temporarily) retire.

Our journey will begin in May. We are going to visit family in Indiana for a month before leaving for the big trip in June. Hoping to get a digital camera before then to post pictures. Any suggestions? email me. Also I am trying to build a group mailing so I can send updates. If you want to be included let me know.

Oh yea--Well we have to schmooze our new paperwork, financial and storage manager. MOM! She will be working for us in her well practiced role. Mrs. 'do anything you need me too honey'. So I will be taking my Mom to China April 18 - May 6. Practice using your chopsticks!