Summer Tour 2005

"It is good to have an end to journey towards, but it is the journey that matters in the end." Welcome to my travel journal. As I depart the academic world of formalized learning and before I return again to the "real world" of work and responsibility, I embark on this journey around the globe. A chance to see new sights, step outside of my comfort zone, develop my understanding of other cultures, learn what isn't taught in school, and have a little fun. I promise to include entertaining stories about temperatures like hell, mosquitoes as big as birds, lions and tigers and aardvarks, oh my!, and reviews of unique travel items like disposable underwear and the psychotic effects of malaria medicine, as well as, exposé's on bathroom facilities around the world. It promises to be an educational experience for all involved. In all seriousness, this trip has been developing in my head for several years now I'd like to dedicate this journey to my parents and grandparents who instilled in me the desire to explore new destinations and gain an appreciation for other cultures. Thank you for your unconditional love and support, for motivating Mom&Pop's Moving Service for one last gig, for the boocoos of time and money you saved me on trip prep, and for stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing this journey. I'll see you with Captain Merrill Stubing, Isaac Washington, and Julie McCoy - please ask they have a hot shower and buffet extravaganza prepared. Also, thank you to my friends who supported me through school and listened with interest to the trip planning - I'll let you know how many people I meet along the way are interested in learning about the differences in operating and capitalized leases. Finally, special thanks to Andrew, Kate, and Cathy for your unending encouragement and travel/gear advice. To all the Atlanta folks, I'll see you on the flipside for some fun! A final challenge for all journal readers, there will be gifts for the friend/family member to communicate most often - winner TBD at the end of the trip! Please write early and write often! This is the story of my adventure...me, my backpack, and, as momma says, most importantly, my sense of humor.