February 12 arrived before I knew it.....this being my last day at work and the start of my new adventures. After a busy, busy weekend of packing both my house and for two weeks of travel, I was off to Jacksonville. I was able to spend a wonderful week with my mother, sister, two precious nephews, and favorite (only) brother-in-law. We were also able to sneak in a visit to my aunt and uncle in Crescent City, FL. Knowing this was the last time I'd see my family for a while really intensified the need for quality time....unfortunately, before I knew it I was off to California for a week with my West Coast family.
California was definitely a much needed vacation. Minus a minor (okay, not so minor) stomach bug that kept me under the weather for a few days, the trip was fabulous. It had been far too long since I'd seen my grandmother, aunts, and uncle. As I get older, I value this time with my family so much more - it truly is the most important aspect of life. Everything else will come and go but family (and close friends) will be there forever, if you take the time to foster the relationship. I was reminded more than once during my CA visit that I could do a better job at that. :) It amazes me how much I don't know about my own family. My trip on the west coast was full of wonderful conversations (and of course some great laughs and fabulous food.)
Finally arriving back in Jacksonville late Friday night, the next morning was time to head back to Valdosta to pack up the trailer and then hit the road to Big Sky Country. I'm so glad my dad offered (okay, said yes when I asked) to fly out and then ride back with me - pulling a trailer is way more complicated than I anticipated and my Subaru was not quite as up for it as I thought she'd be. So fast forwarding through saying goodbye to mom (very hard), loading a trailer with way to much stuff, saying goodbye to my sister and her family (very hard)and traveling across the Country, (stopping in Chattanooga, Kansas City, and Denver) we arrived at my new home Tuesday, March 2nd at 6:30pm (about 3 days and 4 hours later), following only 3 near misses with gas.
Shelby enjoying the backseat during the long drive - 3 days for a dog must be like three weeks!
Just one of the many beautiful views on the drive.
Hello, lady! Your blog caught my eye on FB first thing this morning. I hope that you and your family are doing well! I am so excited for your new adventure in Montana... that's a state I have always wished to visit and it looks like we will be there this July!!! Hugs and kisses to you!
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