Uneventful drive to Ardmore, Oklahoma today. Interesting how wireless internet has become prevalent in many of these roadside motels. A few years ago, I had a dialup prodigy account since they had dialups in many cities. Now much less need … Continue reading →
I’ve gotten the last of the packing done. It will tightly fit into four panniers though it all seems pretty heavy. I think particularly the pannier and a half of bike related tools and parts. I’ll definitely want to check … Continue reading →
Closed up things at work including turning in my laptop and clearing everything out of my cubicle and gym locker. We had a nice send-off lunch, thanks guys! My plan is to return on December 31st, so today was my … Continue reading →
A day for errands and preparations. Completed and filed my taxes. Picked up a rental minivan for errands and driving to Dallas. Moved over several websites so my home DSL line can go off. Stopped in the post office, AAA … Continue reading →
My last day of work today. A fairly quiet and uneventful day as I’ve worked to get most things handed off already. Hopefully not too many loose ends come up later. Still hard to realize that the work assignments that … Continue reading →
 Today a last ride with the PEDAL cycling club. During the year, I normally do many weekend rides with PEDAL. Since I was going to be gone for the regular cycling season (May to October), I suggested one last … Continue reading →
I’ve heard my Chinese visa was approved and passport mailed back to my parents. That was nice and fast as I was concerned about having things held up during closures with the Chinese New Year. In addition to the visa … Continue reading →
Hooray, today my Russian visa arrived! Now I’ll turn around and submit my passport for a Chinese visa. The Chinese visa looks easier to apply for than the Russian one, particularly via the visa expediter. The consulate is closed for … Continue reading →
My Russian visa application was sent by mail this morning. The last pieces came together as I got the invitation last Thursday and the HIV certificate from Larimer County this morning. In my cover letter, I wrote of my intent … Continue reading →
My visa invitation arrived today. Now time to get other paperwork together and submit the visa application. One area of potential confusion is that Russia adopted a new set of new Visa Registration Rules that took effect on January 15th. … Continue reading →