Team Tobin

It's All Alaska Sweepstakes Time!

Starting Tuesday afternoon (more like Tuesday evening considering how Tobin Time affects all estimated departures and arrivals), my dad and I will be the checkers at Checkpoint Topkok. Unfortunately, that means this blog will not be updated until my return (hopefully Sunday). Sorry...

So, what's really neat Checkpoint Topkok? My mom and dad worked the same checkpoint in 1983. At the time of the race, my mom was 3 months pregnant with me! Now, almost 25 years later, it's up to my dad and I to carry on the family tradition of Tobins at Topkok.

For those who love a good mad dash, get your race updates at www.allalaskasweepstakes.org!

Another PC Process Update

I love email. It provides instant gratification. I also love that the Peace Corps uses email to keep me updated as to where I am in the PC process. I can only imagine the frustration former prospective PC Volunteers felt waiting for their snail mail letter to tell them if they had been nominated or not. That would drive even the most patient person insane.

So, the latest PC process news? I recently received an email from Anastasia, my new PCMI Liaison (the Chad is no more). Anastasia informed me that my paperwork has been sent to the Peace Corps Headquarters in Washington, D.C. and that I have been nominated to be considered for programs beginning in July, August or September. The only thing holding me up now is completing my Medical and Legal Reviews.

Pretty radtacular huh?!

Pack It Up

A really good travel pack is worth its weight in ivory.

I am unsure as to the exact weight restrictions, but the PC Volunteer blogs I have read indicate its 80 lbs. That means I have to pack quite a bit of stuff into a relatively small space, not to mention that space needs to stand up to extreme wear and tear.

Good news is I already have a super travel pack. Unfortunately, it's a discontinued model from REI. But - to help facilitate this post, let's take a gander at another great pack: the Osprey Waypoint 80 Travel Pack.

First off, you get two packs for the price of one. The pack features a removable day pack which combined with the main pack, gives you 4,900 cubic inches of space (women's medium).

Secondly, mesh pockets, hidden compartments and internal clothing straps keep everything in place.

And the best part?! The backpack straps conveniently zip into the back panel, allowing you to check your bag with ease and efficiency.

Those outdoor gear designers are geniuses.