The final 24 hours before our departure have started. Although I had prepared a lot of things in advance, such as paying bills in advance, there was a surprisingly growing list of things that needed to be organised and done before tomorrow morning.

Throughout the day I walked back and forth to Eeyore and deposited last minute items that all needed a place. All in the hope that I remember where I put it when I really need to use it. Eeyore was looking filthy as he had been standing under the garage cover for a couple of months now without seeing any rain or being washed. Time for a thorough clean from the outside and the inside. The dirty water running off the side of the gray roof top tent was telling stories. Once he was clean from the outside, the inside needed some TLC. All windows were thoroughly cleaned with special products and cloths to not leave any streaks that could potentially glare in the African sun and make it difficult to see out. Other parts of the dashboard and interior got a quick wipe as well. Now he was pretty and ready for the big trip!

After lunch Christoph came over to bring his tent, sleeping bag and foam mat. Once those items had found a place inside, Christoph got a thorough introduction to the vehicle. Where everything was located such as pot, pans, cutlery, BBQ, spare parts, electronics, emergency money, a hidden spare key, first aid kit, the two obligatory safety triangles and many more items including where the toilet paper is. We chatted also how we would go about certain situations and encounters with police officers trying to make our travel life miserable. Always good to have a plan. Before he left, we discussed our departure tomorrow.

And then it was time to fuel up Eeyore and our generator to make sure that it will run well when required and that is unfortunately too often. Over a nice drink, my wife received the latest instructions from me about who needs to be paid what, how and when in my absence, or which electrician to call in case of another blown up socket or other electrical issues. We also compared many phone numbers to be up to date. Many day to day things that you automatically do, now need to be handed over to someone else and explained in detail. I fully understand that it is not easy, if you have more than a full-time job and you will have to take fully care of our household with two dogs who also love to get some attention from time to time. Thank you so much darling, that you have been so supportive to me in making this adventure happen!

Dear friends and family, thank you all so very much for all your well wishes by phone, email, WhatsApp or in person. They are very much appreciated and we feel well protected with all the thoughts and prayers that will accompany us on this expedition!

Probably some needs to pinch me hard tomorrow morning! Five years in the planning with lots of ups and set backs and tomorrow at the beginning of October 2023, finally the day has come, I set out to drive all the way from Abidjan to Marrakech by car! A dream is coming true!

Bring it on!