Kathmandu...

I think I'm going to Kathmandu.
That's really, really where I'm going to.
If I ever get out of here,
That's what I'm gonna do.
K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu.
I think that's really where I'm going to.
If I ever get out of here,
I'm going to Kathmandu.

I got no kick against the west coast.
Warner brothers are such good hosts.
I raise my whiskey glass and give them a toast.
I'm sure they know it's true.
I got no rap against the southern states.
Every time Ive been there it's been great.
But now I'm leaving and I can't be late
And to myself be true.

That's why I'm going to Kathmandu.
Up to the mountains where I'm going to.
And if I ever get out of here,
That's what I'm gonna do.
K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu.
That's really, really where I'm going to.
If I ever get out of here,
I'm going to Kathmandu.

I've got no quarrel with the Midwest.
The folks out there have given me their best.
I've lived there all my life;
I've been their guest.
I sure have loved it, too.
I'm tired of looking at the TV news.
I'm tired of driving hard and paying dues
I figure, baby, I've got nothing to lose.
I'm tired of being blue.

That's why I'm going to Kathmandu.
Up to the mountains where I'm going to.
If I ever get out of here,
That's what I'm gonna do.
K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu.
Take me, baby, cause I'm going with you.
If I ever get out of here,
I'm going to Kathmandu.

I ain't got nothin gainst the east coast.
You want some people where they got the most!
And new york city's like a friendly ghost;
You seem to pass right through.
I know Im gonna miss the USA.
I guess I'll miss it every single day.
But no one loves me here anyway!
I know my plane is due.
The one that's going to Kathmandu.

Up to the mountains where I'm going to.
If I ever get out of here,
That's what I'm gonna do.
K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu.
Really, really, really, going to.
If I ever get out of here,
If I ever get out of here,
If I ever get out of here,
I'm going to Kathmandu.

Yes, I've decided. I'm going to Nepal and India after Korea--not forever though. :) The plan is to arrive in Kathmandu sometime in the first week of September (or the last week of August if I can swing it) and begin my 4-5 month traveling adventure. When I finish traveling, I'm going to Australia for grad school. I know that I've previously said that I would be coming home between the two journeys, but after looking at the costs of flights from India-home and then from home-Australia, I've decided that the trip home isn't worth the cost of those two flights. I would rather use that extra $4,000 or $6,000 to travel and/or put towards grad school. So, sorry folks! I'm a nomad. What did you expect? However, you are all welcome to come see me anytime, anyplace. Australia will be very convenient for you first-time travelers. India and Nepal for those who want an exotic experience. Korea for those who want to see me in a more settled lifestyle and desire a more structured vacation.

I know that my decision is going to really make some people mad but please consider my interests, my life and my money before you start begging me to come home. This is the perfect time for me to travel--just before grad school, the best seasons to visit these countries and I'm not tied to a job anywhere. I have no family to support. I have no major bills to pay (loans can be deferred). I have the money to do what I want. I truthfully don't see myself ever coming back to Washington to live--will always love it, but will never live there again. In fact, I don't see myself living stateside for a long time. My place is out there. I have to be selfish for change. I can't take care of my family. I can't take care of my friends. You all have to take care of yourselves just as I need to take care of myself; the best way for me to do that is to pursue my interests and passions without letting other people hold me back.

Anyway, so there you have it. I'm leaving on a jet plane and don't know when I'll be back again. (Such a musical day!) Happy trails!!