I'm just about to shove off for King of the Hammers, and three photo shoots while I'm at it.
There's no choice to but to admit that when it comes to packing for a trip, I'm pretty bad. I start wondering if I'll need a given item, make up a reason in my head, and then bring the item along 'just in case.' Most of the time, this approach ensures I'm prepared for any and all contingencies. It also slows me down.
There were a few small victories while getting ready to go.
The first was while changing the oil in the 4Runner. I like to keep things clean and organized as much as I can. This meant cleaning the oil drain pan after using it. Guess what I found? The rubber-coated washer that seals the drain plug against the oil pan! That's a small victory, because it meant I won’t be losing my oil somewhere between Whittier and Means Dry Lake.
The next small victory was finding a better way to secure the cargo in the back. There are four small D-rings in the rear section of the 'Runner, and I purchased some ratchet straps to use with them. The straps crisscross over the top of the cargo, and should hold it fast. Until now, when the back end bucked, all the cargo would get a bit of air and come crashing down with a loud cacophony. No more.
I'm not done packing, so I'd better get this posted and get on with the rest of it. According to the front desk, the hotel in Yucca Valley has hi-speed internet. If it works the way it’s supposed to, I'll be able to post a few photos. If not, I'll be back blogging next Monday.