I am finally allowing myself to get excited about riding off to Alaska next week. In fact, I’m having a hard time wiping off the huge grin on my face, causing much puzzled looks from those not in the know. :) YES, I leave on the 21st of July, which is next Monday!
Most of my trip preparation is done. All I need to do is pack and take care of some last loose ends.
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Now to the important part:
My friend dropped off the satellite messenger last night. This is a device that can send an “OK” signal with a simple message:
SPOT Check OK. All is well and I am continuing on with my journey.
ESN:0-7406077
Latitude:47.67
Longitude:-122.1188
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:07/11/2008 23:47:13 (GMT)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=47.67,-122.1188&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
It can also send a pre-configured “Help” message of this format:
This is a HELP message. If l do not contact you by phone within 12 hours contact emergency svcs. with my location.
ESN:0-7406077
Latitude:47.6701
Longitude:-122.1187
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:07/11/2008 23:49:49 (GMT)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=47.6701,-122.1187&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
I have set up two distribution lists which will receive each of these messages:
alaskaride2008@lists.adventuresinfinite.com
alaskaride2008redalert@lists.adventuresinfinite.com
The former will be used to send the OK messages to as well as brief updates about our journey on the road (which I will also try to post to LJ when possible). The latter is a list for sending the Help message to, to which I will add only close friends and family who accept the responsibility of taking action should I ever need help (I don’t really expect to use this button).
This post is to ask you if you are interested in being added to the first trip update list. This is the list which will only receive updates and “I am OK” messages along with my GPS location. If you want to be added, please send me with your email address. (I do not really expect anyone to volunteer to be on the Help list).
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All of you can follow my progress on this map which is updated realtime every time I hit OK on the device:
http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0JLrU0BbQGJ6gPqYm2nXYFx98Jl6lyxV0.
Another location where you can see trip updates is our ADVRider thread: http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=355138.
Our tentative route: http://adventuresinfinite.com/Motorcycling/Alaska2008.htm
I will also try to make LJ voiceposts and am counting on you fine folks to decipher my accent and transcribe them. :)
Some of you didn’t know who Sarah was, and rightly so because she lives in PDX and I don’t believe I’ve ever posted a photo of hers. She rides a KLR650, is one of the coolest people I know, and I’m delighted to be doing this journey with someone who is so much fun to be with.
So here goes. :) Two dorks on a mission – we’re going to cover thousands of miles, break hundreds of hearts, consume tens of beers and encounter zero bears and mosquitos. Ha!!