Limbo Land

Time seems to be passing by quite quickly these days. Probably just as well, as I'm finding myself in the exact same awful frame of mind as before I departed for Chicago three years ago. A very unsettled feeling that can only be attributed to the fact that I'm simply in limbo right now, itching to leave. Partly because I'm looking forward to my travels, but more because Newcastle has absolutely nothing to offer me any more. As a result, I do feel like a lost soul right now. I'm not complaining because obviously I'm making all the choices here - it's simply just an observation. It's just that everyone around me is very settled (or at least settled in the sense that they have a full-time job, house/apartment that they own or rent, steady disposable income to spend at their will etc. etc.) and I, in comparison, couldn't be any more unsettled. I'm looking forward to that comfortable stage in my life very much and hope that after this trip I will be a lot closer and in a much better position to achieve it.

Universal Sink Plugs

Just over 5 weeks to go before we set off on our big adventure. We seem to have everything under control and well prepared for the trip. I have had numerous vaccinations against all kinds of diseases that we might pick up along the way and received much advice and helpful information about our safety and possible health risks in and around the areas we will be visiting. Visas are being issued. Train schedules and routes have been researched. Passport photos taken. Backpack purchased along with everything you could possibly think of to fill it. Every time I'm in town I can't help but wander into adventure/travel stores. I stand there for hours looking at all the things that "I might just need" and start stressing about it. I think we have done a good job of prioritising items but I guess we won't know for sure until we're in some awful hostel somewhere in desperate need of a universal sink plug (which I almost bought). It's ridiculous really - I mean it's not like other countries don't sell these kinds of products but it's nice to be prepared. mmm, lets see... all purpose travel wash (get this, it washes your hair, body, clothes and even fruit), anti-bacterial dry hand wash, 100% silk sleeping bag liner, cutlery set, travel wallet, toiletry bag, large towel (not just any towel. It's 6x lighter, dries 4x quicker and takes up 1/8th packing space than a standard beach towel!!!), stainless steel travel mug, fleece, hat, scarf, rain jacket, thermal clothing etc. etc. the list is endless.