"Be HERE now........be THERE later"

                                                          ( on the road, 2013)

“Be HERE now, Be THERE later.”

Useful words most of the time but not so helpful when planning a long trip that involves very different climates, situations, and activities. Sitting here in Sopchoppy in 70 degree weather it is hard to think about what is needed for snow, wind, tons of rain, hot springs, mountain tops, and desert. Traveling in the TT (Travel Trailer) makes it easier of course, but weight and space is still an issue.

Based on past experience we have a pretty good idea of what we don’t need and we understand that there are stores (even thrift stores) most everywhere. We try to use our space for items that are expensive and/or hard to get. With about six weeks to go we have just purchased new tires for the truck and the TT. We already have two sets of spares (for each) from our last trip. Our small generator is good to go and we have a flat jack, chains, straps, and assorted tools.

Due to the rough roads, we will not take canoes on the truck rack this time but will take “Miz Floppie”, our inflatable canoe along with the necessary paddles, PFD’s, and gear bags. We will take two bikes & bike stuff. All of this, along with cans for extra gas and water will fill up the bed of the truck. 

I have received our 2016 copy of The Milepost, called “the bible for North Country travel”, some new maps, the 2016 copy of Next Exit, the newest Rand McNally, and the National Geographic Coastal Alaska: Ports of Call & Beyond. I still have Chruch’s camping guide and lots of stuff I brought back from our last trip. I have a tentative itinerary planned and am getting more excited by the day.  It’s getting hard to stay in the Here and Now.