And We Have Liftoff

As we rolled around the backside of the circle at 5:45am yesterday morning, it was hard to believe we were leaving for our second adventure of a lifetime.  Four years ago, the realization of a dream began with incredible excitement, but also with some anxious trepidation because everything was new – the truck, the camper, and the itinerary.  Four years later, we have some experience under our belt.  We learned things the first time around that have helped us with everything from organizing efficiency in the camper and while traveling to apologizing more quickly when we are tired, hungry, or just plain grumpy.  This time around, I think we are all more relaxed and able to appreciate the adventures that await us.

Our longest day is behind us.  We traveled 740+ miles from home to Higginsville, MO (just east of Kansas City).  The trip was smooth with no construction delay and only one short delay due to an accident.  We quickly fell back into the rhythm of traveling – stops for snacks, bathroom breaks, and fuel… lots of fuel.  Making time on the freeway while pulling a 12,000 pound home on wheels isn’t ideal for efficiency!  Our time preparing in the weeks leading up to departure served us well, and we enjoyed healthy snacks and pre-prepared meals that were quick and easy – yet another lesson we learned the last time out.  The evening landed us inside the camper listening to the Belmont Stakes and avoiding the spotty rain showers outside.

With a bit of extra time on my hands, I took a few photos of camper life to share – it may seem small, but it’s our home away from home.  It has become a refuge for our family and holds many amazing memories already – meals have been eaten snuggled together around a very small dining table, travel guides have been poured over, lessons on water conservation have been learned, and the kids were introduced to The Cosby Show for the first time.  I know there are many more to come over the next seven weeks… I so look forward to each and every one.