Odyssey Summary

18-May-2015

With Jerry joining me tonight, today is the official last day of my Odyssey.

What a gift I have received.

An odyssey by definition is; a long journey full of adventures, a series of experiences that give knowledge or understanding to someone.

I experienced a 60 degree temperature swing, and a 365 degree emotional circle.  For 21 days, 19 states and 4,365 miles, I lived alone in a trailer.  I experienced the beauty and power of nature.  The kindness and thoughtlessness of people, and the importance of a smile.  I ate what I wanted when I wanted, did what I wanted and wasn't worried about what anyone thought.  I even forgot to comb my eyebrows one day!  (not kidding, that is really a big deal for me).  I learned a lot about myself and who I am at this time.  My likes and dislikes, my needs, and most importantly, what I treasure above all else.  

Initially, this trip was for self discovery, but also to determine what I want to do with my job for the next while.  What I've come to understand, is my job became way more important than it ever should have.  As Tanner became more independent, in search of another identity, I turned to my job.  I am proud of what I have accomplished, I am great at what I do... and if I choose to do it or not I will be just fine as it is only one small part of me.

I am more than the sum of my parts.  I'm not just Tanner's mom, Jerry's wife or a Data Architect.  I have value and worth   With   And   Without   those things.

I am proud of myself.  I was scared, cold, crying, fearful, free, relieved, inspired, joyful and happy... all on my own.

I get the chance to be me, and for the first time in a while, I am excited by that.

Thank you all for being a part of my adventure.  The support I have received is overwhelming and your notes of encouragement kept me going on those long windy and winding roads.  How lucky I am at this time in my life.  I am loved by many. 

Day 25: Exploring day // Colorado Springs, CO

17-May-2015

Henna woke us up at 5:45 this morning... apparently she was SO EXCITED about going to the play-all-day kennel she couldn't sleep anymore.  hehe.

But - we got up and I sat on the 'couch' and drank my coffee.  She laid on my lap and cuddled for over an hour.  It was really nice.

I dropped her off at 9am, went shopping for Jerry friendly food, and moved camp to a location within walking distance to Manitou Springs.  I have a lovely spot by the creek for the next couple of nights.

I went to the fine arts center and had brunch, then walked thru the exhibits.  Lunch was amazing and the staff was rather friendly.  Essentially I had the place to myself being Sunday afternoon.  It was nice to see it at my own pace... I could linger at what I was interested in and speed by the others.

After I came back to camp and read a book by the stream.  When it got too cold, I came in and played guitar for a while, then went back to my book.  

Jerry discovered a pesky AM vs. PM difference on his ticket... he's not arriving tomorrow morning.  So, we are going to stay in Colorado Springs until Wednesday morning.  I'm planning on being in the office first thing to hopefully get my spot for another night.  One positive note, there is a restaurant that is one of the top 50 most romantic in the United States just up the street, Briarhurst Manor.  We were not able to go when we were leaving on Tuesday (as they are closed on Monday), but since we will be here I got us reservations for Tuesday night.  Now... What to wear, as I didn't bring anything 'nice restaurant' worthy... shopping tomorrow??

Day 24: Exploring day // Colorado Springs, Co

16-May-2015

Today I made french toast for breakfast (I'm getting good at that), ran some errands, drove around Colorado Springs some, did laundry, filled propane, etc.

Oh, I just had to fill my first propane bottle.  Except for 2 nights, I've used an electric heater.  The trailer seems to be 'light' in propane use for just running the fridge, cooking and hot water.

I also took Henna to be interviewed at Camp Bow Wow.  She's going to spend Sunday and Monday playing with other dogs.  She's been rather clingy in the last couple of days and I feel like she needs some time off from guarding me.  It will also give me a little more freedom to spend time inside where dogs aren't allowed.  I want to see the Fine Arts Center that Carol recommended.

Jerry is arriving on Monday and I feel my Odyssey coming to an end.  For the most part I am ready.  I'm a little scared that I will forget all I have learned and lose a little ground - but I guess I could always spend a night in the driveway, hehe.

I had planned on doing some wondering around Garden of the Gods etc but it started raining... so I will have to wait on better weather.