I have been thinking about things I want to write or share here but there has been no time. I can't believe I am even taking the time to write this! But everyone else is still asleep and I must be in denial that we are leaving today and there is still a ton to do. The preparation in the last two weeks has gotten more and more stressful. Add a 13 year old into that and let me tell you the fun factor is completely missing.
Everyone we tell from friends to store clerks say how exciting, lucky, great etc this is going to be. I am counting on that. It does not feel that way right now. It feels like I am torturing my family because of some crazy dream I had. I know you are probably reading this thinking what a whiner, but imagine everything you have to think of and do to leave for a year. Pack your entire life into boxes, store your computer, set up online banking and bill pay, how to deal with security online while on the road, do something with your car(s), buy things you need for the trip, set up blogs, make sure you have contact information for all your friends and family, health insurance here, health insurance away (the topic of health insurance could be a whole blog and I am sure it is), saying good bye to friends, who is taking care of the cat? Oh and did I mention dealing with your mother who has had her cancer come back? This is not the fun part but I am trusting that part is coming.
I have to say being in a stressful situation shows you who your friends are. Who comes to help you pack, has you over for dinner, stops by to say good bye, does any task for you that you need done, helps you find your wallet when you lose it in the mess of it all (you know who you are!). We have amazing friends and community here. I am so grateful and appreciative for the support and love.
Of course the stress of all these decisions and tasks needing to get done is challenging and does not bring out the best in family dynamics. But we are almost there. Tonight we will be driven to SF to spend the night and get a flight at 7:00 am for Seattle and then Hawaii. I will let you know when we arrive!
I can only imagine how nervous, busy and excited you all must have been on this day. (Heck, I stress out every time we head back to Ohio for two whole weeks.) I honestly do not know how you found so much time to meet with me and teach me SO much before you left. I bet you are happy to be on the road finally. Now you are living the dream and creating a remarkable new chapter in your family's story together. Congratulations!!!! Keep blogging, can't wait to read more.
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