A Test Run

Many thanks to Mom, Gerad and my friends Sejal, Brock and Jon for their help in loading all of my stuff last week. We left NC for Florida on Saturday for a 10+ hour drive. Since then, I've been unpacking, getting ready for the trip and relaxing by the beach and pool! I could get used to life without a job!

I did a test run of the sleeping mat and bag last Friday night since my bed was packed away in the Uhaul. Not a good thing...I am very nervous about spending 42 nights on a mat that is as hard as ceramic tile and a sleeping bag that is made out of slippery material! And...no body pillow! I have already packed Advil PM just in case...

Where in the World is Jamie Going?!

Several of you have asked for an itinerary of my trip. Your wish is granted!

June 29th - Depart Orlando, FL
June 30th - July 4th - Cape Town, South Africa
July 5th - August 16th - Trek across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya
August 17th - August 19th - Bangkok, Thailand
August 20th - September 13th - Australia
September 14th - ? Beijing, China

Bon Voyage Winston-Salem Style!

20 or so of my closest friends in Winston-Salem met for a goodbye dinner for my roommate Chris and I at Downtown Thai. After dinner, we went on a pub crawl to Recreation Billiards, 6th & Vine, The Garage and Silver Moon. I have met the most wonderful friends over the years in Winston! I'm going to miss them!

A Kung Fu Farewell!

My co-workers at BB&T had a going away party for me on June 3rd. I was told to come in 'costume' because everyone else was supposed to be dressed up in a 'kung fu' theme. I was the only one who showed up in a karate outfit. It was hilarious! My co-workers presented me with a Gator colored karate belt, a letter from UF's President, a Beijing hat signed by almost everyone from our Division, a picture of the 'Jamie Barden Memorial Bank & Trust' among other items to represent my last 6 1/2 years with the bank! Best of all, a slideshow was prepared with pictures of me with Obama, Tim Tebow, Kim Jong il...it was great! I'm lucky to have worked with such terrific people and to have their support as I hit the road!