40 years ago last week, Apple shipped its first Apple II computer, Elvis was in the last month of his life, and Undercover Angel was the top song on Billboard (other than for Apple and me, it wasn’t a great week). It was also the week that I started my first job after college.The job was in an office. And fast forward — except for vacations and when I was in-between jobs, I’ve been going to an office virtually every day for 40 years. None of them were bad offices. In fact, many of those offices offered fulfilling work and gifted me lifelong friends. But nonetheless, they were offices.
This year, for a variety of reasons I decided it was the time to make a change that I had been planning for several years.
On June 19th, I sold my house.
On July 5th, I left my job.
And on July 6th, my two dogs (Sally and Trax), and I took off in our camper van on what has been alternatively called “Our Great Adventure”, “The Great Escape” (I like that one), or “Into the Hinterlands”.
As this blog develops, I will embellish on the reasons behind the change and the planning steps that went into it. Essentially it boils down to this – if not now, when?
Please join us as we ponder this life and meander through the American West. And if you are only here for the cute doggie pictures, that’s great too. There will be lots of them.
If you don’t know me well, check out the “Who Are We” link. Even if you DO, check it out anyway. I hope it makes you smile.
What an amazing adventure! I am looking forward to experience some freedom vicariously through this blog. :-)
Thanks for ALL of your encouragement!
Hey now, I like Undercover Angel!! 😉
Kim, of course you do 😊. I also like the music from when I was 12 .
What a great adventure you, Sally and Trax are on. Look forward to hearing about your travels.
Thanks, Armstrong.
I am soooo happy for you and your “family” companions as you begin your adventures. God has truly blessed me with your friendship and I pray His safekeeping as you travel.
💚
As I have said to you, if anyone can do this, it’s you! Travel safely, blog often, and enjoy it all! Is it ok if I share your blog address on our Class page?
Laurie, that would be nice for you to share it, but give me a few days to add a few more entries that are more travel oriented. I have some cool pictures that might make for a better first time experience .
Will do! We’re going down to the Valley for a week. I’ll check your blog after that.
I’m so impressed, a little jealous, proud of you, and so excited for you! Happy Trails! Looking forward to your blogs and pics. Take notes to write a book! Is this the same Pleasure Way?
Yes, Linda it’s the same one I had when we met up a few years ago at Capitol Reef.
Love the first post! I’ll look forward to your blog updates and keep them coming, Eileen.
This is amazing! I can’t wait to travel the world with you, Sally, and Trax! Congratulations on your maiden voyage. May you have fair winds and following seas.
I’m so excited for you and to follow along with you on your journey! Glad I met you in one of those offices 15 years ago!
It was 15 YEARS AGO? No way.
Cheers to your “Great Escape”!! I’m so happy that you’re taking time to pursue this amazing life adventure. I loved reading your first post and look forward to reading all of them, along with the photos you will share. 😊👍🏻
Thanks, Yvette. It is very exciting.
I love it! So excited for you!! I’ll be watching for new posts to see where you’re at and for cute doggie pics, too!! Xo
Very nice…be safe
Onward, ho! Git up little doggies! Enjoy!
Doesn’t “little doggies” culturally refer to cows? Or are those “dogies”?
Queue the western music and tumbleweeds …
Absolutely love seeing an idea developed and germinated. I recall when you first proposed this idea a few years ago. Honored to have been privy to the early planning and impressive rollout. An eloquent opening and introduction. Looking forward to following along in your adventures, Eileen…into the great beautiful unknown.
Thanks, Todd.There is a lot to learn and a lot to see. It’s fun to be able to share it.
Fantastic journey – inspiring. We are a fan.
Thanks! Each post takes me quite a while since I’m such a novice but I am enjoying it.
Hi Eileen! So very happy for you on your new adventure. Takes a lot of courage, and you’re right: if not now, when?! I’ll be following your blog with much envy and excitement — travel safely dear friend.
Thank you so much, Irma. It will be interesting to see what unexpected adventures we find.
What a great adventure Eileen! Good for you. Looking forward to following your journey. Have fun, God speed.
Thank you, Sandi! I hope you are well.
Now that I have worked backward in your blog I can better understand the voyage. You had told me this was your plan and I love that you have put it into action. You know where we are, and you and Trax and Sally are welcome anytime. We will be away for short spurts between now and mid-February when we will be in Anna Maria Island, Florida until May 1st. Fondly
Nancy and Andy
Thanks, Andy and Nancy. You will be able to track where we are as well and if your travels bring you out west, would love to meet up.
So excited for you , Eileen ! Anxious to follow your adventures through your blog! Have fun… and safe travels! If you get to Wisconsin give me a call!!
Eileen, you’re one of the smartest people I know besides being well read, insightful, compassionate and many more things. Congratulations on your decision and I wish you, Sally and Trax the very best. I can’t wait to read the rest of the blog and follow your journey. BTW, Houston is also in the West, isn’t it?!