THE RTW BEGINS TODAY!

Just after midnight, and my RTW journey begins in just over 15 hours with a quick flight to Los Angeles to stay with a friend of mine before my 17-hour flight to Singapore on tuesday. After a grueling day of packing, and moving everything out, going up and down the stairs of my 2nd-floor apartment, I've gotten some great exercise. I said good-bye to my sisters, my nieces and nephews, and it's weird knowing I'm not going to see any of them for a long time. I'm so grateful to have such a loving family -- all of whom are more than willing to store some of my belongings for however long I'm going to be gone, so I don't have to rent a storage unit. Mom's agreed to take me to the airport tomorrow -- she's been so strong and supportive, continuing to tell me she's happy for me, while holding back the tears as her baby's off to who knows where for who knows how long. She's gotten a passport for the first time in her life -- just in case I get seriously hurt or need her to come get my body, I guess. I doubt she'll ever leave the US though.

For the last several days, my friends have been awesome - buying me drinks, breakfast, dinner and wishing me off -- I couldn't ask for a greater group of friends. I just gotta remember to send some trinkets to my friends from my various travels.

Off to sleep...The adventure awaits!