31/n: in between

I’m in Germany, but I’m not back in Germany. I’m at my parents place, but I’m not at home. I’m back in a world of convenience and comfort but it’s just a quick stopover on my way back to a world of simplicity and minimalism.

In the meantime there are many little reunions, that all entail little goodbyes. If just what lies ahead of me wouldn’t be this big void. I haven’t found a connection to this new adventure yet. I think it was a good call to just keep going and do the next adventure, but the feeling isn’t the same as it was at the beginning of Te Araroa. Or maybe it is. I’m not sure. Maybe it’s just that I don’t feel insecure or worried about this trip. I know the drill now.

Now I’m sitting in the airplane to New York. I try to get into a hiking mood. I do some research and finalize a shopping list for some new equipment.

This is probably the thing I’m looking forward to the most. An epic shopping spree at REI New York.

I already have a new backpack — the Weitläufer Agilist. I’m already in love with this beautiful piece of luggage. I also bought a new sleeping quilt. The Enlightened Equipment Enigma — literally the quilt of my dreams.

Also in my backpack:

• zPacks Groundsheet Poncho
• Power Bank

Everything else is waiting for me and my credit card in New York.

Researching and buying new equipment is probably my second favorite part about hiking. It feels like creating a next generation super hero outfit. More lightweight, more versatile, more minimalistic.

I guess I am excited about this trip.