06/03/09 

Morning Day before departure. Mom has seen through my ruse of preparedness and she and Dad are on the verge of an anxiety attack. I maintain my nonchalant demeanor to balance the energies of the household. I am, however, secretly stressed and decide to go shopping to ease the panic. I wander into the water shoe section of REI and realize I NEED a pair of Tevas. The salesman tells me that the Chaco wearers have more street cred within the hiking community. I now own a pair of lime green Chacos. I will wear them at least 10 minutes every day in Thailand to justify the fact that I spent $90 on a pair of lime green sandals. Late at night Chugged three Red Bulls. Begin packing.