May 24th.

Having a fire alarm go off in the wee hours of the morning.

So that probably doesn't sound like a good thing to anyone at all. But let me explain myself for a moment here! First of all, most of the time when a fire alarm goes off, it's a false alarm. This is just a huge relef to anyoner who was yanked from sleep and sent stumbling, bleary-eyed, down 5 flights of stairs out into an unfamiliar city to sit on the pavement. As long as you know that the hotel isn't actually burning, you'll be fine.
Secondly, did you know before that bell started ringing, that it was actually getting light out at 5am!? I certianly didn't. but was happy to discover it. Sitting around in the dark, outside is far more uncomforable.
And lastly, it makes an interesting story, and certainly makes you appreciate the fact that no, your building isn't in ruins. (but perhaps next time we'll wait for than 10 feet from it. Across the road, perhaps? thanks)
As long as it doesn't happen a second time, we're all good.

Camping-kitchen equipment

So you have just walked into a MEC, or an REI Co-op with a solid plan. 'I'm just going to buy rainpants' you might be thinking, or 'just a new waterbottle, and an airmattress' .
It will never, ever work out like that.
Ever.
Oh hey, what's that over there? Cooking equipment?! No way! (I should go look at those. )
Rows upon rows of gadgets are splayed out across the store before you. The latest light weight stoves that can boil a litre of water in under a minute and can cook pasta atop any mountain. Folding forks, spoons, knives. Sporks? (I might need one of those. Oh, it's titanium? even better! And it costs 12$ ? ...That seems alright)
Suddenly your basket is chalked full of little kitchen helpers that will make your camping experience even better. A pocket sized contraption to fit on the end of a stick...no need carry a hot-dog stick now! A 3-spice carrier; it's shock-proof, waterproof, and airtight, so if there is ever a hurrican you know your paprika will be safe! A stainless steel pot with a folding handle? (what, it was on sale!)
Then before you know it the till is ringing up a change of 200$ and you sign and reach into your wallet, trying to justify all of it.

But you'll use it all in the end..right?
I don't know if it's just me who does that...but...I do love my kitchen gadgets.