Day 0, preparation

The first leg of this journey traverses the central valley in California.

Dave and I will start the ride in San Jose, cleverly bypassing the heart of the bay area and getting straight to the scenery. Over the next few days, we'll travel south, starting on highway 25 and eventually arriving in Santa Barbara.

The gear I'm carrying for the next six months is strewn all over the floor of my parents house. Every item is subjected to one final "do I really need this" before I stuff it in my panniers.

Three care packages are nearly packed, containing some goodies to eat, a refill of sunscreen for sensitive skin and fresh underwear. Only three packages seems a bit anemic, but ultimately, I can refresh my supplies anywhere there is a store. I think they'll fulfill a morale-booster role, rather than actually needing the candy inside.

Twenty-four hours to departure.