That statement has been said repeatedly to me by friends and family and even strangers when my story comes up. And at first I am taken off guard bc I think, "I'm not looking for anything?" So if I'm not looking for anything, what am I doing? I started pondering this whole journey and have jotted down things that have come up regarding this question.
1. For the adventure of it all---how many people can say they were able to do what I'm doing, when they want to do it. To see new and exciting things....and even boring!
2. To meet people & experience life. Hear their story...
3. To focus on me--get to know "me" really well.
4. To take on the FULL responsibility of the boys...whew! that's been the hard one.
5. To figure out what I want to do next in my life and career.
6. To love myself FIRST and MOST. I know that sounds selfish but everyone should do this. You have to love yourself fully first before you can love anyone else wholly.
So far that is what I've got going on! I'm sure more will come to mind and I'll pass them along...maybe :).
We are in an incredible setting now. The BEST campsite to far. A very nice wooded and secluded campsite in Livingston, MT. It's called Paradise Valley for a great reason. I believe some of the most beautiful countryside in the US is here. All the pics below are from very near the campground. We did a hike today in the Gallatin National Forest. Just beautiful.. But I have to admit, when you see a sign like the orange one below, every stump or rock is a BEAR!! You're definitely on high alert. The river in the pic is the Yellowstone River.
And I totally understand that some of my grammar has not been correct after publishing the post! Spellcheck doesn't let me know when I use the wrong word.
And please shoot me a comment (which you can do below each blog) or an email. I would love to hear from everyone. That helps me stay connected to the world!!
I would be just like you with my girls, they completely rule the day and I follow along. I can't imagine how hard it would be to lead them when I'd be so nervous about traveling and new sites.
ReplyDeleteI also would be ducking and weaving everytime I saw a stump or rock- Moose, Bear, same difference- I would roll down the mountain to get away fast :) Hope you take mace or something you could use from a distance versus the "oh, sh@t!" face, which I use even when see a Wasp.
I hope you have many more wonderful experiences on your journey. I feel your trip is not o find anything, the journey is the gift God gave you. You are right, who has the chance to do what you are doing... Many people have people, work, and other responsibilities that hinder their journey. Marriage, kids, career, excuses are some of the journeys God gives others, but you have the gift of exploration, reflection, and Spiritual renewal. We are able to enjoy and "live" through your journey! It all fits you and your personality- free, friendly, open-minded, and caring! Stay safe and just beat up anyone you feel threatened by on your way!! :)
Uh Sista....You could have left out the orange sign and I would have been just fine with that. I want you hiking in full body armour...Do you understand me??? Ha-ha I am the oldest here so do as I say!!! Lol YOU GO GURL ( just be careful) :-)
ReplyDeleteAlison, I am so happy to get through. I tried a couple of times and was spanked. I am ready to begin living vicariously through you. I am so happy you are gone and smack dub in the beginning of this quest. I am looking at your pics and you are making me want the same. I'll keep in touch. Keep posting them thar pictures...Rick
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