We said our goodbyes and exchanged warm hugs with our dear friends Al, Trudy, and Tyson before heading south toward Bel Cielo in Brawley, California. The drive took over six hours, winding through steep and twisting roads as we left the hills of Lake Hughes behind.
Along the way, Janice continued reading The Whole Story – A Walk Around the World by Ffyona Campbell, the remarkable tale of a British woman who walked across every continent. We also passed the time with music, thoughtful conversations about our journey ahead, and reflections on the current state of the world—particularly the troubling state of politics in the United States.
Traveling serves as more than an escape for us. It is a way to recharge, to find the strength to keep fighting for what we believe in, even as so many of the protections we’ve worked hard to uphold—clean air, clean water, endangered species—seem increasingly under threat. It can feel overwhelming at times, knowing that change doesn’t happen overnight. But being on the road reminds us why we care so deeply. It strengthens our resolve and reaffirms the importance of the connections we share—with each other, our friends, and the communities we hold dear.
We arrived at Bel Cielo around 5 p.m., eager to stretch our legs after the long drive. The boys—Lincoln and Tad—were thrilled for a walk, sniffing out the new terrain, while Comet settled into the comfort of the motorhome. After setting up camp, we enjoyed a quiet dinner under the evening sky, reflecting on the day and the journey ahead.
Before bed, I read to Janice from The Housekeeper by Freida McFadden, a psychological thriller that has kept us both captivated. “Welcome to the family,” Nina Winchester says as I shake her elegant, manicured hand… The chapters are short—perfect for those restless nights when worries creep in about the world, the challenges at Umpqua Watersheds, and the uncertain future. Reading together, even in the middle of the night, offers a small refuge—a way to step outside our thoughts, even if just for a little while.
This trip is more than a getaway. It’s a chance to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with what matters most: each other, our shared purpose, and the simple joys of discovery. Traveling with Lincoln, Tad, and Comet makes every experience richer—we see the world through their eyes as well as our own.
Life is great, and we are grateful.
No comments:
Post a Comment