I've been having a wonderful time the past two weeks visiting with friends and loved ones. Several heartfelt goodbyes on my Farewell Jaunt '07 have solidified for me that it is going to be hard to leave and hard to be gone for as long as I plan. 
I have been making great strides in getting gear purchased - please admire the Corey's-eye-view of my new shoes (one and only pair I'll be wearing for the foreseeable future). Despite several long walks and at least one short jaunt every day, no blisters! Auspicious.
I've also purchased all my clothes (one pair of pants, one skirt, three short sleeve shirts, one long sleeve shirt) which I spent a long time deliberating about because I wanted everything to coordinate with each other AND with my shoes. I was kicking myself for not getting the dern black shoes! All turned out quite well.
My daypack and I are having some adjustment issues with one another - I'll be going back to REI to check on other candidates when I head back to Raleigh tomorrow. Tomorrow I will also deal with banking issues and perhaps selling my car as well. I will be making offerings to the Carmax Gods tonight in hopes of big money, no whammies in that department.
This trip, even though not yet officially underway, has already been a great experience. It has been really fantastic to be able to spend time with old and new friends and my family. I highly recommend retirement.
