I am making progress in packing. I know doesn’t seem to be such a huge task and it’s not when all you have to do is focus on a trip. I look forward to the end of this week..many issues will have at least some answers, again personally and then I can figure out what I am coming back too. In the meanwhile after today I will just not care about the personal and focus on myself being fortunate to explore the great continent of North America yet again in 2014.

I love the lids on Jesse Luggage it actually is very useful to hold “stuff” and adds to the capacity of my little 8 inch panniers. I am not taking as many tools as we used to as dual riders, Cheryl and me.

I am being honest when I say I doubt very much I will be changing a flat K60 on the side of the road myself. I will bring tire supplies just in case someone would want to help me or I will just call roadside assistance. I have BMW as well as BCAA.

What sort of sucks is I have to bring at least one set of “nice” clothes but my dry bag can fit them. Might need to find an iron

I have the BMW OEM low seat on my bike. The F8 is a tall bike as many are aware. Although I find it way more comfy than the regular height plank OEM seat, I am not taking any chances with my butt. Adding a sheep pad I got back in 2010 can only at least help. It did when we rode X Country in 2010 and other trips.

One thing while I am going through what I call my own “hell”…it is amazing to see and hear all the support that’s out there for myself. Including this RR, my blog, other social media but also right next door. I have befriended 3 incredible women in my neighborhood and although I am not overly spiritual or religious they gave me the gift of Saint Christopher last night so I am protected and being watched throughout my trip.

Also, they included Amethyst charms, three of them..one for each friend and a butterfly. All about new beginnings. I LOVE it and will carry it with me. Maybe not around my neck all the time but on the bike in the tank bag at least.

4 days left and off I go. Have some running around to do for last minute items and bring my journal up to date. I have many names in my journal, many people to try and hook up with throughout the trip. I hope to meet some at least but we all know how routes take on their own life. Not only because the GPS has a mind of its own but because who knows what the weather will do etc.

I will try and stay away from interstates of course but will jump on one or two to make up time if needed. I am not afraid to admit I use cabins and motels for shelter if the weather sucks instead of camping. I am not that hard core and probably ride like most ADV riders which is to explore, take pictures, meet people, eat GREAT breakfasts, LOVE breakfast over any other meal and just take in the environment and scenery.

Riding a bike to me is the best way to see the world. My father is very funny….he wants me to ride the NY and stay with my parents while he ships my bike back. He was the man who introduced me to two wheels at the ripe age of 2 1/2 years old. First a bike and at age 4 my first little Honda 50cc motorcycle. But he really does not get traveling so far despite how many trips I take. He means well, love him for that but again politely declined his offer.