Update 2/20
Fri, Feb 20: Many belated thanks to Deena for hosting the send-off party Friday evening at her beautiful home, and to Eric, Laura, Nathan, and Elise of the Mustard Seed staff for the delicious food and refreshments. Also, many thanks to all of you who were able to attend and give us words of support and encouragement.
After the party we went home and I began the final loading-up of the tandem. While trying to move it around and thereby finding out how heavy it was, I imagined how much extra "stuff" we must be carrying. So, we unloaded everything, unpacked every bag, and culled out anything which we thought we could get along without. Result: about 12 - 15 pounds less weight to pedal around. By the time we finished re-loading the tandem and packing the clothes, etc. to be mailed to West Point, it was Saturday morning and time to leave. That's right: an all-nighter. A great way to start out a 67 day trip.