Well, we have started. We are actually on our way west. At our first break - Huntington WV rest stop - Jeff and I studied the map so that he could show me today’s expected route. We are going to cross the Mississippi River. That is worth re writing - the Mi doubbleS i doubbleS i pp i River. I’ve flown over it a couple times, but for most of my life the mighty river has only been a major character in a Mark Twain novel. I won’t be able to help myself. When we cross I’ll be looking out the window for that famous log raft. I’ll unroll the window to catch the faint sound of calliope notes drifting up off the river from a paddlewheel boat.
I say “expected” route because anything can happen. We might decide at any moment to change directions, pick another road while still continuing in a generally westerly direction. We’ll leave he interstate often though maybe not these first two days. A few butterflies have taken flight in my belly as I contemplate the journey ahead.
Our Dodge Ram Starflight camper is packed tightly, each space efficiently packed with what we each deemed necessary for a month of life on the road. It will be interesting to see what we actually use and what we miss. Our tiny refrigerator contains water, bologna, cheese, eggs, condiments, and chocolate chip cookies donated to the cause by my mother-in-law, Martha. They won’t last long.
Momentarily I think of of home, the fields and blooms we’ve left behind along with the mowing and weeding. Thanks Bob and Kasey for taking care of the house for us. Enjoy that front porch while we are gone.
Tomorrow I' write of today's adventures, including an emotional trip across the Mississippi.
I hope some of you will enjoy riding along with us on our trip, Jeff and I will enjoy your company.
