Round 1 of Supplies

So I went to Walmart the other day to look for some stuff to purchase for the trip. We are trying to be thrifty. I would love to go on a shopping spree at REI but that is just not going to happen. I did buy a few things at Walmart that I thought would be helpful. However, I am holding off on purchasing the "good stuff" (camping stove, fuel, table, etc.) until Lela and I can go together. I am definitely psyched for this trip and I want to make sure that we do the important things together. So I bought a sun shield for the windshield. I am hoping this will keep the van cool for sleeping if it is parked in the sun during the daytime. I also bought, probably the most critical supply although probably the least exciting, duct tape and black electrical tape! You never know when you may need this stuff and it always comes in handy for fixing even the most random things. Oh, and don't forget the ever practical bungee cords. The 24 pack I bought has a variety of lengths (and colors, wuuu!). The best find though was the battery powered fan. I have been looking around for one for a few weeks now, so when I came across it I knew it was mine. It is powered by size D batteries. I couldn't find them at the store so I will have to pick them up later.

While I was out I also stopped at Pepboys and picked up a cigarette lighter socket. The van's is european and doesn't hold my GPS unit in securely. I read on the internet that the one from Pepboys will do the trick. I hope so, otherwise I may have to break open that duct tape earlier than I thought.

The van is still at the shop. They are giving me the ole' "We are just so busy right now. We are down two mechanics"....blah blah blah. We have all heard this before. I am not that concerned about it right now because parking is an issue in Arlington without a permit. So, as long as it's ready within a week or so it will be okay.

Enough for now.