Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Lisa Love on July 28, 2010 at 9:03pm

Oh girl,
Let me tell you how TERRIFIED I was to go my first year. I was scared, really really really scared.

It is easy to get overwhelmed with the preparation. There is lots to stress about, there is a lot to remember. It is easy to get freaked out about it. I still got scared my second year; but now in my fourth, I am at ease about everything.

Take a deep breath. Envision yourself have a great time, think about how awesomely RAD it is going to be hooping your brains out on the playa. Let go of any negativity and be open to wonderful opportunities.

You can do it girl. You will be just fine. It is okay be afraid and anxious; this is a big thing and you will never see anything like it ever again. Go an expirence and have a great burn :)

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Permalink Reply by Kristi Jetpack on July 29, 2010 at 9:29am

lisa -

thank you so much. i needed to hear that. i think i am just getting overwhelmed with the details. i know it's going to be incredible. i appreciate your kindness.

<3

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Permalink Reply by mindy on July 29, 2010 at 10:12am

I completely agree with Lisa Love. Of course you are nervous! Chances are you've never been camping in the middle of a barren desert for 8 days right? Lots to prepare for. Sounds like you have taken all the steps to be ready! Props for that, that is more than some people do before their first year!
My first year I was a nervous wreck! I couldn't sleep the night before, which isn't good with a 15 hour drive ahead of you. I cried and wondered why I had put myself in this position and knew that I was going to hate it. Then I got there. And I have never been the same since! My first year at Burning Man was definitely a pivotal point in my life. It was worth every dollar, minute of stress and every tear shed.
This will be my 4th year and I would be lying if I said I don't stress about it anymore. I still get preparation anxiety a little bit. My best advice for this is making a kick ass packing list. Break down everything into sections and write EVERY single thing you need to bring down. Then just make sure you check everything as you pack it and not before. I still get really emotional when I am leaving, but of course, it's the start of an epic journey! You are feeling many emotions all at once. But nothing can make you understand the feeling you get when you drive through the gates of burning man until you experience it yourself. The feeling of being home. Good luck & have a beautiful burn! )'(

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Permalink Reply by Lisa Love on July 29, 2010 at 11:28am

I do still cry when I have to leave my cat and my family....I don't know why.

A great list is what it is all about, you can always add to it as well!

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Permalink Reply by mindy on July 29, 2010 at 12:44pm

Haha....I cry when I leave my dog & cat too....thought I was the only 1 :)

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Permalink Reply by Kristi Jetpack on July 29, 2010 at 12:14pm

mindy -

thank you so much! i'm in the process of making lists now! i'm such an overpacker by habit that i'm really trying to reign myself in and still not forget anything. thanks for the advice!

<3

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Permalink Reply by mindy on July 29, 2010 at 12:51pm

You are so welcome! Can't wait, it's coming u so soon! I think Hoopcity has planned a sunrise hooping sesh Thursday at the Temple, would love to see everyone there! Can anyone confirm that this is the plan? i don't know what the other thread was called.

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Permalink Reply by Casey B. on July 29, 2010 at 12:18pm

I agree with Mindy, just get a solid list together and check stuff off as you pack. I've never been to Burning Man (yet), but I'm sure I will be a nervous wreck when I go, too. Every festival I go to, I get mad anxiety the week before. Preparation is just so much work and it seems almost overwhelming! I always think I'm going to forget something, or leave the stove on, lol, etc.... Good luck! I'm sure you'll be fine and have a lovely time!!

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Permalink Reply by Lisa Love on July 29, 2010 at 2:52pm

If you do end up forgetting something, no worries! Your neighbors will probably have some you can borrow!

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