We’ve made it to month 7 on the race, so if we’re being honest there are a few things that we have become accustomed to since leaving on August 8 in 2017. So if you are thinking of doing the race, preparing for it now, or you are just one of my loyal subscribers here are a few things that we have coined as “Just World Race Things.”
- Living out of a pack feels normal, and the thought of having a closet full of clothes seems like a distant reality.
- With only a few sets of clothes in your pack, it is normal to wear the same outfit 2-3 days in a row.
- Chacos are the typical shoe for any occasion.
- Chacos get STINKY
- Your sleeping pad is a lifesaver. (Pro tip: go with a comfortable sleeping pad even if it takes a little more room. It’s worth it)
- You will carry your tent around the world only to use it one or two times on the race.
- Going a few days in a row without showering becomes more normal than we would like to admit.
- Getting creative in how to stay active is a real thing.
- Debriefs and LDWs are an extroverts dream and an introverts biggest nightmare.
- The slogan is 11n11 but you will probably end up going to at least 14 countries.
- It has become normal to only talk to family/friends at home every few weeks.
- Squatty potty’s become a norm. Western toilets become something to get excited for.
- In public the first question always asked is “Do you speak English?”
- Followed by, “Was there WiFi?”
- Borrowing anything and everything becomes normal.
- Nutella, peanut butter, and Oreos are like gold.
- You get stuck with 4-6 random people, and a month later you are family.
- “When is team time?” Is another frequently asked question.
- Letters from home are essential.
- Facebook messenger is always the best way to contact someone, ANYWHERE in the world.
- You often get told one thing, and that will probably change 10 minutes later.
- It will be weird seeing people wear short shorts because they aren’t in WR dress code.
- You will get used to not knowing what is going on.
- Spotify is a lifesaver on travel days.
- You will spend a significant amount of time waiting.
- People notice a big group of Americans and often come up and talk to us.
- As someone who is white in Asia and Africa, pictures taken of you and with you is super common.
- Adventures that we are able to take are unreal. Seize those opportunities because they may never come again.
- Goodbyes become easier than they should be.
- A good speaker to bring on the race is a FANTASTIC investment.
- You won’t know what side of the car to walk towards because every country drives on different sides.
- Being stared at becomes semi normal.
- Rice is apart of your daily diet… pretty much everywhere.
- You will miss driving.
- You will miss your friends.
- You will miss your family.
- But you will never trade this experience for anything.
I know there are many more things that could go on this list, but here is the beginning of it all!
In Him,
Caleb Callaway
