When it comes to sartorial issues, I am a vain man. On more than a few occasions, I have mentioned caching in more formal wear than one might expect or lamented the toll that caching has taken on my everyday clothing. So when the opportunity came to “cache in [my] pajamas,” I scoffed at the possibility. But a friend published an early morning Event meant to draw folks together in their pj’s for breakfast. That might not be quite so difficult, I thought. I went back and forth over the question until the last minute. I even did laundry so my robe would be its best in case I decided to Lebowski it. At that last minute, at a decidedly unholy time to roll out of bed if a road trip isn’t involved, I decided against it. My personal sense of style would not allow it. At Halloween, sure, but any other time? That’s a negative, Ghost Rider. I dressed and made my way to the Event. Upon arrival, I saw what I pretty much expected: the togs were divided down a distinct gender line, with ladies in sleepwear, gentlemen (excepting the host’s hubby) not. Several in attendance were quite sure that I actually sleep in slacks and a cardigan, so my choice of dress conformed with their expectations. Only the finest night cardigan for my friends, no? I accepted my souvenir and was happy to get it.
Of course, a lot of discussion swirled around the dozen of us, one of the biggest subjects being the looming GeoWoodstock. It has been a sad subject for me because, as much as I had hoped and planned to go, I would not be able to. However, it is less sad now because my chances of being able to attend have gone from zero to fifty-fifty. I like the idea of going to another Giga and all the counties that it would entail. I would definitely hit a new state and could easily take another day to complete a different state. And many friends will be there! And it would give me a chance to promote Texas Challenge to a very wide audience! Of course, I also have to balance that with two other factors: real-life responsibilities and the lack of financial preparation. There are things I should get done in the next couple of months. I could move them forward a bit, but that could result in real-life problems, and I really don’t need any of those. And the last time I took a road trip without being properly financially prepared there was the debacle of Arizona.
For those unfamiliar, three years ago, I flew into Las Vegas, intent on hitting all the counties in Arizona and dipping my toe into California and Utah. Because of two financial issues—an unexpected credit card charge and incomplete research into gas costs in more remote places—I only got half the counties of Arizona and had to cut out Cali and Utah entirely. Moreover, with my poor handling of route replanning (primarily because I didn’t take my laptop along), I now still have to drive around the entire Grand Canyon State to finish it. Had I waited two weeks, I would have not only had more than enough money to weather both issues, I would have been able to add a Yuma Mega to my attended list. That’s what I get for champing at the bit, and I don’t want to replicate that mistake.
It would be smarter to stay home. There will be other Megas and Block Parties this year. Heck, two of them will offer opportunities to finish off states I’m close to completing. But believe me … I want a second Giga so bad I can taste it!
Geocaching While Black 