26... 25... 24...

Tomorrow afternoon at this time, I'll be on my way to JFK. Tourist guide; street map; boarding info; passport- all the necessary documents. On one hand, I'll be wearing a ring of turqouise that I picked up at the Grand Canyon, on my first such solo adventure. On the other, I'll be wearing a gift made for me- three loops of copper, wrapped in wire of blue and brass. I'll lean back, and relax- then an invisible hand will press me into my seat, and I'll be away. I'll do my best to shake the pillars of heaven while I'm there; at the very least, I'll bring back a memory or two.

(Also, if you want a postcard from New Zealand, comment here, including a mailing address (comments to that post are screened; comments to today's post are open.)

(no subject)

n a unanimous decision, Iowa's Supreme Court ruled that the state cannot prohibit same-sex couples from seeking marriage licenses. "On our review, we hold the Iowa marriage statute violates the equal protection clause of the Iowa Constitution," the court held. "A statute inconsistent with the Iowa Constitution must be declared void, even though it may be supported by strong and deep-seated traditional beliefs and popular opinion."

(no subject)

This is an adorable true story from Snopes, about an abandoned female greyhound who became a foster mother of sorts at the animal sanctuary to which she was brought.

Before I fly...

To kadenza, eastertheatre (above and beyond the call!), and- most of all!- tyellas: thank you so much for sharing your knowledge of New Zealand with me.

To rezendi and rm, thank you both for useful travel tips. (and, in Rezendi's case, for e-introducing me to Tyellas as well!)

For everyone who's offered support, encouragement, and congratulations: thank you all.

And, most of all, for the simple opportunity, ability, and resources with which to do this thing: thank you.