"In 2 and 1/2 months my husband and I found the "path" back to that childhood "feeling"...no responsibilities, dead lines, schedules...only spontaneous adventure."
How I did it: Got out of debt, saved $4000, have a monthly Army retirement, load up a 1998 Dodge Neon with a tent, ice chest and small Coleman stove and drive off. We had a route mapped out but found that in April the North is still too cold so headed South until May...then went North. Saw 28 states and Canada, 35 National Parks and monuments, the largest...piece of pie, ground hog, peach, ball of twine. Listened to the trees in Oregon speak to me during the night. Listened to the Indian drums through the night in Florida. Watched the warm rain drops fall from the new growth in the deep woods of Missouri. Found enchanted, secluded waterholes where you could swim in the most unexpected places. Climbed mountains at a leisurely pace and then look over the whole world from the top of that mountain that you never thought you’d get to the top of. Saw aliens in New Mexico. Stood amazed at the immense heat of the day - on one day - and relieved by the coolness of the very next day after driving 8 hours. I read my journal from that time and realize how rare a gift we held in our hands for a very short 2 and ½ months.
Lessons & tips: The most important lesson I learned is NEVER…NEVER take any moment in your life for granted…the good or bad. Each moment brings with it valuable lessons...IF you will let it.
Practical lessons: Take a tarp to cover your tent. Stop at the "super" super markets when you pass them for supplies. Always get ice when you stop (for the ice chest). Relax...and take things as they come. Be ready to change "your" plans in a minute...that's part of the adventure.
Resources: WalMart, small Coleman stove, ice chest, tarp and our beloved 1998 Dodge Neon!!
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Dec 01, 2008, 10:39AM PST
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