How to vacation alone
How I did it: My grandpa had a tumor removed from his brain. I went to visit him in the hospital down in Florida. I am from Michigan. While in Florida I stayed in Grandpa's condo and drove his car. I decided that although I was very sad that he had cancer, I would make the most of the situation and take care of myself. I wasn't the best at it... I had been working all the time and it was good to get away to somewhere warmmmmm and this was January 2006. Anyway each time I got in Grandpa's car, I thought "Freedom! I get to do what I want to do. Go where I want to go, listen to any radio station I want!"
So twice a day I would go to the hospital and see Grandpa... his girlfriend would then go and do other things... she would stay with him and I would relieve her.
Then I had ME time. I looked up Starbucks and Old Navy and got directions. From there I learned my way around Bradenton, FL. I ventured out to Sarasota and Anna Maria Island. Sunbathed at the condo complex pool and met lots of nice people, many were friends with Grandpa.
Doing this was good because I took care of myself and it helped me deal with the feelings I had towards my grandpa's illness.
Lessons & tips: Break out of your shell. Take lots of pictures, turn up the radio, explore! I went out during the day only..
Get souvenirs..... Local newspapers are awesome because they take me mentally to Florida when I read them.
Resources: Well the internet of course. Family members too. They came down for a weekend and relieved me of my visits... I was burned out because Grandpa had gotten cranky and the nurses were very helpful too. They were patient!!!
