Wow, where does the time go? Over the last month I have finished up some part time coursework, moved into a new place and continued prepping for my trip. I picked up a few items needed. For starters, I bought a new bike. My old bike is fantastic. It is fast and nimble and glides effortlessly across city streets. However, it just was not designed for long-distance touring. I even contacted the manufacturer to discuss upgrading options. I could have done some upgrading but it is more beneficial to get the new bike in the long run. Pun intended.
I bought my very first digital camera last weekend. It is the 12 megapixel Panasonic Lumix ZS . It is a feature-rich camera that includes manual aperture and priority settings and HD video capabilities. And with 12x optical zoom, I can get close to the wildlife without actually getting close to the wildlife. At one point, I was considering the Olympus Tough series. I weighed the opportunity cost and having a rugged weatherproof camera although would be an ideal choice for where I’m going, it has lower specifications. Other gear ready to go includes my MSR Hubba Hubba HP tent, Marmot sleeping bag, Therm-a-Rest air mattress and Osprey Raptor 14 hydration pack for those off the bike moments.
I discovered a while back from a colleague about a new WordPress blogging application for the iPhone. They also have one for the BlackBerry. This application allows you to post and approve comments and photos on the WordPress.com blog site without the need for a separate computer, laptop or netbook. Consider today’s post a trial run. And as you may have already noticed I have GPS tracking setup. Again, from my BlackBerry. I did a test over the weekend. Having it on for 10 hours uses approximately 800 KB of data. So when you are planning your own trip consider getting a data plan from your cell provider to share you location so friends and family can keep tabs.
Since my last post I stopped eating poutine and chicken wings and gained 7 lbs. How does that work? Must be the lattes.
Filed under: Bicycle Canada 2010 |
Going The Distance For Mental Health 
Greetings from Croatia!!
Well…it sounds as if you are prepared! Good for you!
Glad you chose the panasonic camera..anything but an Olympus….had those and they have issues! Will you be posting pictures as you go? Or will that just suck up unneccessary battery power….just wondering.
I am looking forward to following you via your GPS tracking device and reading your posts!
As for your trip…I wish you slightly cloudy days (no sunburn), the wind at your back, straight roads (or atleast slightly downhill), friendly locals, good health, great memories and a fabulous adventure!
Take care Martin!!
BTW…those 7 extra pounds you’ll burn off by the end of week one 🙂 so no worries
I’ll be taking photos as I go since I have an extra camera battery.
What an adventure, i will be tracking your journey my
friend .
Nigel