Before Leaving Florida
I am sitting in Starbucks enjoying a weekly treat while Charlie is getting groomed. We are getting closer to our departure date of May 12. A nice calm and relaxation seems to be carrying me. Daily I say goodbyes to friends heading north for summer. I am not the only one leaving, but I am possibly travelling the farthest.
Since the RV left the resort, Charlie has been anxious and clingy. So I spend all the time he wants on our walks and play with him more frequently. He seems to benefit from the attention. It's hard to know what he experiences, but his sensitivity is apparent. Yesterday, he grabbed both of my socks, rather than one, to play the "Come get your sock" game. He has such a sense of humour. Jan loved that quality in him and developed it even more! Charlie has been a comfort and a motivator for me. I will miss him when I leave Washington.
I bought Charlie a special harness and belt to clip him to the seatbelt. He has always ridden shotgun. He likes to be able to sit, lie down and stand to see out the window. Since we will spend so many hours on the road, I decided at least I could prevent him from flying through the windscreen in case of sudden stop. Jan would be proud of me that I am considering his safety.
I have so many emotions in preparation for the trip: sadness, freedom, responsibility, nostalgia, excitement, apprehension and confidence. I have always travelled. Before Jan and I were together, I travelled alone in the world. So some of my enthusiasm relates to exercising that independent traveller of the 90s. Yes, I would prefer Jan accompanied me, but it's validating to know I can do it without her.
If you are on my route (see previous blog entry) and would like a visit, please let me know. I will add your address as a destination. Here's to more processing the losses and gains of this next adventure!
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