One step closer to departure. I picked up the bike after dropping it off for a pre- trip tune up. Also ordered a few parts to have as spare. A new chain, Disc Brake pads, Brake Rotor, Brake and Shifter Cable, 6 spokes. Not that i'm expecting to rebuild the bike along the way but, why be stuck on the side of the road when you do not need to.
 I'm at the point now where picking the date to begin is the only thing left to do. The week of August 12th looks like it.