Six months. That’s how long Mark, Maya, and I lived in “our room above the garage” at my in-laws’ condo in Newburyport, Massachusetts. Apart from a one-month stint further up New England in June, when we helped family with home renovations and visited a couple of friends. Six months! It’s the longest Mark and I have ever remained in one place, since becoming a couple in 2004. Impressive… Or not?
The Pros of Room Life
I am the first to admit that I actually enjoyed being in a “stable environment” for a little while. Life on the road is challenging and exhausting. This break was timely and welcome. I savored every shower and good night’s sleep; the unlimited electricity and comfortable desk. Even our noisy, inefficient “easy-bake oven” and unreliable college fridge (that barely held produce without some falling out each time we opened the door) had their charms. The sofa bed displayed two big indents from our bodies and pained my back, but we could sit up in it! Our dishwashing routine in the bathroom became familiar. We just had to remember it or teeth brushing was in jeopardy.
We helped Mark’s parents wherever we could. People, in general, wore masks when out and about. I was productive with my book. Mark had a decent job with the US Census. Maya was comfortable. Our six months here weren’t too bad at all; a nice change from what we are used to. And, we managed to hang out with good friends one more time, before leaving.
(As always, hover over the photos to read captions or click to enlarge.)
The Pros of Vanlife
But travel is in our blood. We are nomads after all! So, albeit with mixed feelings and not much of a plan, the three of us hit the road again in our 19ft camper van the day before my father-in-law turned ninety, on Saturday, October 17th. We’d head south first. Then, turn west.
Back on the road
Zesty is our home on wheels. Everything has its dedicated spot. The fridge is efficient and sufficient. Our two-burner stove provides easier cooking than a one-burner induction plate. And we own two sinks! We are on the move, self-contained, and ready for new adventures while trying to maintain our lifestyle and work ethic. Dare I say we are free again?
Why Go South to Head West?
Good boating friends of ours (referred to as our “pizza friends” in the past) were still in the Chesapeake Bay on their sailboat, heading for warmer climes, so we did some effort to meet up. But before that, we managed to reacquaint with the one person who was present at our official wedding ceremony in Annapolis: Jim. It had been thirteen years since we last saw each other!
Mark, Maya, and I also had a reminiscing stroll in this special-to-us town.
Because of schedules and mooring restrictions, a multiple-day visit to Tom and Karmen on Sauvage was impossible. The solution: we all spent one night together at a free dock in Virginia.
The following morning, Maya and I joined our friends on their catamaran along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) south and Mark followed in the van. Our dog did great – she’s the perfect boat dog! Seven hours later, we all reunited in North Carolina for a final afternoon and evening together.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The long driving days started. Somehow, we ended up on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, despite having been warned it would be busy and having decided we wouldn’t bother. It was the weekend. Other boondocking (free camping) options were full. The weather was crappy. It all worked out this way. We didn’t have internet, but I had enough offline projects to fulfill.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Blue Ridge Parkway ends in this national park, which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Except, we had to make a detour since Zesty is too tall for the last string of tunnels. After collecting information at the visitor center about the park, its scenic drives, and the (mostly) dog-unfriendly trails, we geared up for a fun, active couple of sunny days. First, we took advantage of one of the two hikes on which dogs are allowed. Ironically, this river trail was popular with a herd of elk too; the only wildlife we encountered.
Late afternoon, as the crowds thinned and the dog was exhausted, Mark and I set out on a 3-mile hike to view three waterfalls. The day ended on a positive note, at a lovely, free camping spot by a river. As seems to be the norm now, Mark cooked and cleaned up; I worked in the evening.
Our second day in Great Smoky Mountains NP didn’t go as expected. It was extremely crowded ‒ bizarre on a random Tuesday in October. The fall foliage might have had something to do with that. Parking lots overflowed, traffic jams occurred for miles, trails were packed. We stopped at a couple of viewpoints and only ventured on the dog-friendly walk at the northern visitor center. But the main reason we called our visit to this national park short has to do with the following…
What about Covid?
After being on the road for two weeks now, I have to be honest: people in Massachusetts are a pretty responsible bunch. We miss that! Like the past seven months, Mark and I are careful. We keep our distance, wash or sanitize our hands often, always carry a mask, which we wear in stores and crowded spaces. There is NO WAY we would come within six feet of strangers, unmasked. Ha! It’s safe to say that the two of us now belong to the 1% in states like North Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama. The 1% of careful and considerate mask wearers that is.
It is insane how few people wear a mask when packed like sardines in a can at viewpoints or on popular hikes. Even when talking to (masked) park rangers or us! We were appalled, annoyed, and eventually put off. We had to leave the area, without further hiking and exploring. Believe it or not, but even in the grocery stores, some customers don’t cover their face. I witnessed at least three employees remove their masks while serving people at the deli or talking to others (including me) …
Conclusion
Our trio is happy to be back on the road and to continue our wandering lifestyle. As always, we prefer quiet places in nature to camp and avoid people as much as possible. Time will tell how the rest of the year and of this open-ended journey plays out. Our main goal is to stay warm this winter. Where? That depends on the outcome of the upcoming presidential election and the pandemic.
This post is dedicated to one of the most generous, genuine, kind, and happy women I was fortunate to know and call family: my aunt Marie-Thérèse. As I was completing this post, I received the sad news of her sudden passing in Belgium, this evening, October 29th, 2020.
I will miss you, sweet aunt, and I will keep doing what you portrayed so well: live life to its fullest! May you guide me in spirit now. Thank you for always embracing us, preparing the most wonderful and special meals for Mark and me; for your unmatched hospitality and care, following our adventures, and trying your best at speaking (and writing) English. <3
October 29, 2020 at 18:03
An unexpected sad ending there, Liesbet, I’m so sorry about your aunt. She looks like a lovely lady.
October 31, 2020 at 22:10
Thank you for your kind words, Anabel. My aunt had a great personality and I hope my poem for the service reflects that. The good thing about having been close to her and frequently in touch with her means that we have no regrets.
October 29, 2020 at 18:09
I’m so sorry about the loss of your aunt. She sounds like a great roll model for you.
I’m also sorry to hear about the maskless masses. This second (or third?) wave will be with us for a long time if we don’t listen to the scientists. Please stay safe, my friend… and let us know if you get out our way (we are enjoying some really nice temperatures right now).
October 31, 2020 at 22:17
My aunt enjoyed life, Janis, and for that I’m thankful. But her personality was much more cheery and positive and kind than I’ll ever be. She was always curious about our adventures and a good sport with “the American”. 🙂
As long as we can avoid the crazy masses, we will be fine. Grocery stores are pretty safe these days. Other than that, we try to stay away from people. Although this weekend, already two different campers came over the chat. 1) We are busy and only here to work in peace. No time and desire for chit chat. 2) Please, stay six feet (ideally more) away when you approach us! And, yes, we did mention both sentiments. Not to be rude or anything.
I don’t think California is on the agenda this winter, but you never know with us! 🙂
October 29, 2020 at 18:21
Liesbet, I’m sorry about the loss of your aunt. Also sorry to hear you had to cut your visit to the Great Smoky Mountain NP short. The waterfalls look beautiful. Unmasked crowds while the case numbers are soaring? Yikes, I’d leave, too. Stay safe and well!
October 31, 2020 at 20:46
It boggles my mind how some people behave, Natalie. As if no pandemic is going on. People take each other’s photos again, touch the phones of strangers, chitchat two feet apart, cue for the bathroom without leaving space… All without masks. You got me! Not our place!
October 29, 2020 at 18:29
Hi Liesbet, I am very sorry about your Aunt Marie-Thérèse. She looks like a very sweet person. Please accept my sincere condolences.
I am sorry that you are dealing with people who aren’t wearing masks. I’ll never understand it.
Be safe.
October 31, 2020 at 20:49
Thank you, Lea!
My aunt was one of these people who could always cheer you up. A positive, sweet, and caring soul. I wrote a poem for her (restricted) funeral service today (in Dutch) and we hope to follow the ceremony online this coming Saturday. Because of Covid, only fifteen people are allowed to attend in person and no food can be served. Strange times. It makes everything even more sad.
October 31, 2020 at 22:31
Hi Liesbet, I can understand how this could make everything feel more sad. However, it can not take away the love your aunt gave, and received from those in her life. Including you.
I wish there were words to make all of this better, but there isn’t.
November 1, 2020 at 14:10
Thank you so much for your kind words, Lea! We all have to enjoy life to its fullest – that’s something I realize over and over again. 🙂
October 29, 2020 at 19:05
HI, Liesbet – Condelences on the loss of your aunt.
I’m glad to continue to follow your travels on the road, and your journeys to publication.
And those refusing to following COVID guidelines and putting others in danger? Don’t get me started!
October 31, 2020 at 20:53
Donna, I can feel and sense your frustration across the borders! Yeah… don’t get us started about others not wearing masks. Some people just “forget” what’s going on, it seems like. Others are just pure idiots (Covidiots), inconsiderate, or oblivious (Cobliviods?).
We’re happy to be back on the road, but it’s been tough to keep working on this book. It makes for incredibly long days, little sleep, lots of stress, and daily headaches. Not to be sustained…
October 29, 2020 at 19:05
Very sorry about your aunt.
Yeah, people in our state feel invincible when they are outside. And yes, that is the most crowded time of year for the Blue Ridge Parkway.
October 31, 2020 at 20:56
Hi Alex! Once we realized this is leaf peeping season, we (somewhat) understood the packed roads and viewpoints. While others might plan their trip around the fall colors, we think it was “bad timing” for us… And, you’re right. I think that’s why people rarely wear masks on the trails and at the viewpoints. They think once they’re outside, all is fine.
October 29, 2020 at 19:56
My sincerest condolences for the loss of your aunt.
I’ve seen a little bit of the not wearing masks here in Phx, but for the most part, folks are social distancing and wearing masks inside buildings. I bet it felt great to be back on a boat again. Safe travels!
October 31, 2020 at 21:00
Hi Ingrid! That’s good news coming out of Arizona. You’d think people in cities are a tad smarter about the pandemic and the mask wearing. And there is more need for it in crowded areas, of course.
It was interesting to be back on a (moving) boat. While we spent NYE with the same friends on their cat in Florida, it had been a while since I actually helmed and “sailed”. Maybe we’ll get our own catamaran again. One day…
October 29, 2020 at 20:24
I’m so sorry for your loss, Liesbet. I can tell by her expression she was a bright light. No doubt she will continue to guide you on your travels. Stay safe. xo
October 31, 2020 at 21:03
Thank you for your kind words, Jill. My aunt’s sudden death has greatly affected us. Once again, we realize how precious life is. Yet, I am working way too hard and long these days, which I feel is not good for my own health and heart. I managed to take an hour off today – the first in at least a week – to create a heartfelt, personal poem for my sweet aunt’s funeral service.
October 29, 2020 at 20:30
On the road again with ups and downs, just like life. Hard to realize that certain parts of the country are so irresponsible about safety for all. 🤨 Very frustrating. But on the positive side, you’re not in MA to experience the cold and snow that’s forecasted! Blessings to your aunt- I can tell from her photo that she was special. 🙏💜
October 31, 2020 at 21:07
My aunt was special, Pam. I’m devastated about her passing and about how her husband and my cousins must feel right now. And, yes, while life on the road is quite different from house living, the parallels of “ups and downs” still exist. In any lifestyle. Funny you point that out, as it’s a main theme in my memoir. 🙂 Double yes about us being happy to have missed the first snow of the season in MA!
November 3, 2020 at 16:33
Ups and downs are such a part of life, no matter where we are and how we live. Good theme, Liesbet. Laughing about your joy to be out of snow. Good news is that it’s already melted and temps in 60s the rest of the week. 🙂 Sweet prayers for your aunt and her family.
November 4, 2020 at 11:00
Happy to hear temps are up again in MA, Pam. Especially on sunny days, it will be a lovely fall. Here, in Arkansas, it’s lower seventies for the coming days. Unfortunately, I’m “locked up” in our camper to work on my book the rest of the month… 🙁
October 29, 2020 at 20:31
I’m excited to hear how house-sitting goes for you in Rosemont (sp?) California anyway. Nice area.
October 31, 2020 at 21:08
Hi Jacqui! Is it possible that this comment was meant for someone else?? 🙂
October 29, 2020 at 20:43
Congrats on being back on the road Liesbet. I’m sure that after a few changes and minor adjustments, you and Mark will get right back in the swing of it. Bon Voyage! ~James
October 31, 2020 at 21:11
Hi James! That’s how I recognize a fellow gallivanter… You know the little tweaks and quirks that we have to go through the first couple of weeks back on the road. I never thought about it before, but after six months, we did have to readjust and get used to quite a few things that came natural to us before! 🙂 Merci!
October 29, 2020 at 21:32
Your hiatus from the road came at just the right time, pushing you closer and closer to the finish line for PLUNGE. The title and cover are so perfect, I just have to write it again.
I checked your coordinates as of this writing. While others may glide over your current location of Muscle Shoals, AL, I perked up. A school in that town marked the beginning of Cliff’s expanding his art & music performances in the 1980s when a principal in that town offered to host several shows and pay his expenses, a real breakthrough!
The ending made me a little sad: My condolences to you on the passing of a beloved aunt, Marie-Thérèse. From the brief description, I can tell she was a kind, caring soul! ((( )))
October 31, 2020 at 21:17
Oh, Marian. I’m glad you like the looks of my book so much. I hope you’ll adore the content as well. 🙂
How interesting about Cliff and Muscle Shoals! A special place for good reasons. We didn’t visit the town at all, but managed to find a free place to camp along the Nachez Trace Parkway, where we’ve been sitting for days, trying to catch up on work, book edits, and typesetting. My head spins!! No time for sightseeing, unfortunately.
By the way, I think you’re the only one who actually checks our position and keeps track of our location! 🙂
October 29, 2020 at 22:47
Aww, I’m so sorry about your sweet Auntie’s passing, Liesbet. Your photos of your travels make me yearn to visit those places, esp the Great Smokies. Sad to read so many aren’t wearing masks. Here in California everyone wears masks, some outdoors, which depends. Even in Mammoth Lakes, we all wore masks in indoor places (the law) and in crowded outdoor spaces. Im happy you are back on the road again, I can feel your excitement in your words! Keep me posted when you come to the Pacific NW!
October 31, 2020 at 21:20
Hi Terri! I don’t think you’re missing much in the Smoky Mountains. We think the scenery and mountains are much more spectacular out west. If you want to be impressed by amazing views, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains, Colorado is the place. And the Pacific znorthwest isn’t too shabby either. 🙂
October 30, 2020 at 04:46
Glad to hear you’re nomadic again. Stay safe and enjoy it all.
October 31, 2020 at 21:21
Thanks, Trace. We will try.
October 30, 2020 at 09:44
Your title immediately brought a smile, since I know this is where you belong, Liesbet. “Back on the Road.” At least for now. Your thoughtful approach to life always makes me think. I think knowing situations and locations are temporary makes me savour the moments there. An efficient fridge is huge for us when we camp. And, the two sinks, a luxury lol . We only have one sink, and of course, camping is not usually longer than one month. The Fall colours are breathtaking! Amazing to see the elk. I am very sorry to read about your aunt. You are carrying forward her legacy. Hugs. xx
October 31, 2020 at 21:25
You are so in tune, Erica! Yes! The road is where we belong. But, I can honestly say that it’s been a rough week trying to combine work with errands and living conditions! On top of all the emotions and circumstances. But, we manage. We always do. 🙂
Having two sinks in a 19ft (6m) camper makes up for all that! Haha. It is quite unique in a vehicle this size, though. But, I like not having to brush my teeth in the kitchen sink, or having to do the dishes in the bathroom sink. Six months of that was enough!
October 30, 2020 at 11:09
Liesbet I send my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your dear aunt. Her modeling of living life to the fullest such a good one ot have.
Best wishes as your journey continues. It’s difficult to understand why people are so determined not to wear masks. I was reading how Taiwan has gone 200 days without a case. They have had mandatory mask wearing since the beginning. Pretty much says it all.
Stay well and may you continue to find isolated and beautiful spots to call home.
October 31, 2020 at 21:32
Thank you, Sue.
Mark kept telling me similar stories about how the virus is pretty much non-existent now in China. Unbelievable. What a difference leadership, national rules, and enforcement makes. That is literally saving thousands of lives! Just yesterday, I said to Mark (again) that if people would just wear masks around others, especially strangers, what an improvement that would be. It’s not that this is difficult or a big sacrifice… Sigh!
October 30, 2020 at 16:00
Your smart to be on the road. More options. 1% only wearing mask? That and along with unlimited air-flights is why the virus is gong to be around for a while.
Sorry to hear about your aunt!
Stay safe and happy.
October 31, 2020 at 21:35
Hi guys! Every time you two (or one of you) leave a comment here, it’s under a different name or account. Is that on purpose? I was just wondering… 🙂
I bet the situation in Colombia is much better under control than in the US! Maybe we will leave. Well, depending on what’s happening this Tuesday, we may have to anyway…
October 30, 2020 at 18:08
So sorry about your Aunt. It is especially difficult in these uncertain times to have elderly relatives. She has a lovely smile.
You don’t know how glad we have been to be back in Tucson. People here seem to take the pandemic very seriously. Everyone wears masks. In Montana, the Dakotas, Wyoming – just about every where we have been since spring people have been ignoring the mask mandates. I find it especially irritating when I enter a big chain store that has a sign on the door requiring mask and then seeing employees not wearing them or wearing them incorrectly.
National Parks seem to be hit and miss. Some days we have seen lots of people wearing masks and somedays not. We always have a bandana tied around our necks and when ever we pass people on a hike we pull it up.
But we have done ok. We have managed to travel, enjoy some of the sights, and not get infected.
I think this is the first year we have really experienced a fall in a long time. I was wondering when we were in North Dakota and all the leaves were changing if “Leaf Peeping” was a thing everywhere. I was assured it was – but I doubt it is anything like in the Smokey Mountains and on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
You are making me miss boating. I love the Intracoastal Waterway. I have this idea that maybe some year we will buy a trawler and do the “Loop.” It wouldn’t be sailing but I like just cruising up a river seeing the sights.
So glad that Maya did so well. So nice that you got to see all your fiends.
Now it is time to get to the southwest! Hope to see you soon!
October 31, 2020 at 21:41
Hi Duwan,
It sounds like we’ve had similar experiences than you two (four). In certain states, things are stricter and safer than in others. I’m glad to hear that people in Tucson (and most of Arizona) take the Covid-situation seriously. And that you’re happy to be back.
Aha, is there another boat in your future? We can talk all about that when we meet up again, one of these weeks. We’re looking forward to being in the desert Southwest again, but need time to get there, as this book is surely weighing on me/us and there is still so much to take care of. Sigh!
I’ll send you an email one of these days, while we’re underway and Mark is behind the helm. I mean, behind the steering wheel. 🙂
October 30, 2020 at 19:02
My condolences on the passing of your Aunt, Liesbet. And you are back on the road again. AT times, I think I could be a nomad as I like the stimulation of change and new enviroments but reading about the cons made me think twice. Sitting up in bed is a simple luxury that one takes for granted. All the best for your journey. Looking forward to travelling along a little with you here and there.
October 31, 2020 at 21:45
Thank you, Amanda! I don’t know too many people who would look at our van and think “I’d love to live in that full-time!” 🙂 The space is small and the conveniences few, although the set-up we have is incredibly unique for a 19ft camper. Yet, because of the confined space (especially when we leave the bed pulled out), it is important we “reside” in warm locales, so we can use the outdoors as an extension of our living quarters.
October 31, 2020 at 01:16
I’m sorry to hear about your aunt. It’s just been one thing after another this year.
The reason we are sitting where we are sitting right now (Oregon) is because mask compliance is so good. We traveled to several places this summer and the difference in how people behave with this pandemic is incredible. The west coast and places that have been hit hard seem to be much better, and the thing is, life goes on pretty normally. We feel fortunate to be able to travel to places where we feel safe and can go about life normally rather than feel like we’re taking our health in our hands every time we go to the grocery store. Hope you guys find those kinds of places too as you head west.
October 31, 2020 at 21:55
2020 is a crazy year, for sure. If all this would have happened in 2000, it would almost have made more sense. Or, when was it that the Mayan calendar predicted the end of the world?
Good to know that Oregon feels relatively safe. I would have guessed that the PNW and California have similar practices in place as New England (or MA). In general, that’s the case in the more liberal states. I think the places that are doing better are the places where people are more educated and where the leaders have taken more precautions and made the right decisions.
Who’s been hit the hardest doesn’t seem to have any effect. Just look at North Carolina and Tennessee, we just passed through. The numbers (like in most states) have been the highest ever and still, the locals’ behavior remains the same. Insane!
October 31, 2020 at 14:49
Your aunt has a lovely smile, Liesbet. Sorry you didn’t get to say goodbye. 🙁
October 31, 2020 at 21:59
Thank you for your kind words, Jo. I was glad my parents (who were very close to her; they were friends as much as family) were allowed inside the hospital to say goodbye, because Covid restrictions became tight again in Belgium.
October 31, 2020 at 19:35
Wow – you stayed put for so long! Glad you are back on the road, and I hope things go well. We have seen so many different versions of “Covid-safe” across the country; I would agree that it tends to be regional, but we’ve also been pleasantly surprised some places and less so in cities and states that are supposedly doing a better job. For better or for worse, this is what we get when we don’t have a national mandate and allow states to handle things themselves …
Also sorry to hear about your aunt, who looks so good-spirited – keep up her cheer in these crazy times!
October 31, 2020 at 22:05
I couldn’t agree more with everything you say here, Lexie. When we were in Great Smoky NP, we talked to two rangers, outside, about the guidelines regarding mask wearing, as the four of us seemed to be the only ones with a mask on among at least 200 people. I still can’t believe how disrespectful it is of any of those visitors to talk with those rangers without wearing a mask themselves! We wouldn’t be able to deal with it!
Anyway, the employees told us that the National Parks (despite being a federal agency) follow the rules of the state they are located in. Yep, a national mandate would have saved a lot of people and reduced the death toll tremendously.
November 1, 2020 at 23:36
Hi Liesbet! One of Thom and I’s favorite Jimmy Buffet songs is, “On the road again” and I can almost see you and Mark belting it out as you drive along. I’m sure that it feels so good to you to be back where you belong now after being in one place for such a long time. In some ways it makes the experience even sweeter. And yeah, anti-maskers are VERY annoying but hopefully you will have better experiences with that as you head west.
And I join everyone else in expressing sadness at the loss of your aunt. Never easy whether expected or not. May the awareness that she is guiding you in spirit bring you comfort. ~Kathy
November 4, 2020 at 10:36
Hi Kathy!
We’ve noticed the mask wearing is hit or miss. Surprisingly, here in Arkansas, it’s been pretty good, especially inside buildings and on sidewalks in towns. Still, these are stressful times – for many reasons (the pandemic, politics, the election, and my book) – so I can’t quite say that we are enjoying being on the road again. Next year, hopefully!!!
November 2, 2020 at 21:00
So glad you both are healthy and doing well. Annie and I spent about 3 1/2 months traveling this summer/fall to many of the same places you and Duwan visited and our experiences In the cities and parks were similar. We don’t pull a trailer anymore so it’s always hotels, restaurants, fast food or take out. Most hotels were great and even the restaurants were pretty good depending on the city/state. Already planning future road trips but really miss being overseas. It’s a strange world when mask wearing is almost a political statement.
Our condolences for your loss.
Stay safe,
Steve
November 4, 2020 at 10:47
Hi Steven!
It is so nice to hear from you!!! I have been wondering where you and Annie have been and whether you’d been able to explore a bit. I know, I should check out your blog and find out. But, it has been incredibly busy for us, back on the road and dealing with the publication of my memoir. Who would have thought this to be a full-time job? Not me!!!
Anyway, I’m glad you both have been able to spend that much time traveling this past summer. Mark and I actually had it in the back of our minds to contact you on our way to Colorado. But then we decided to skip Colorado for now (getting too cold and Maya ate your state in our atlas), as well as Utah. Plus, with Covid, visits are always a bit tricky. Maybe in the spring. Although, depending on the outcome of this election, we might have to leave the country.
Stay in touch and be safe as well!!!
November 2, 2020 at 22:55
I’m sorry to hear about the passing of your aunt Liesbet. 💗 And I’m both appalled and stunned to hear only 1% wear masks. 🙁
November 4, 2020 at 10:49
The mask wearing really depends on the state, Debby. We’ve found people in Arkansas to be much more compliant than North Carolina, for example. Although, in nature people don’t seem to care too much, even when they pass each other within six feet. Not having a national mandate means that each state does what it wants. Luckily, most private businesses are smart about it and require masks inside their stores. Not that this is enforced…
November 4, 2020 at 10:50
Yes, lucky. It’s all so sad. 🙁
November 3, 2020 at 09:58
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your aunt, Liesbet. Sadly, my father passed away after a very short illness just over a week ago. The day before he passed, he was planting spring bulbs in his garden. It really makes you think that we should cherish every single moment we have.
It’s great to hear you’re on the road again, because I know how much you enjoy it. Unfortunately, we’re all going to come across those that do not wear face-coverings. The best we can do is to avoid them at all costs. I enjoyed your photos, especially of the elks. The smokey mountains looked wonderful. Autumn looks to have well and truly arrived there. Just a shame about the number of people.
I know you will, but please take good care of yourselves while travelling. I’m looking forward to finding out where you’ll be on December 25th.
November 4, 2020 at 10:54
Oh Hugh,
I’m so sorry for your loss. How devastating to lose your father. I had no idea. It’s crazy how fast these things can go. Same thing with my aunt: the evening of her heart attack, she was on the phone with my mom, organizing a visit to my parents the following day!
Yes to cherishing every moment we have. But, often, there is so much to care and worry about on a daily basis that prevents such “luxuries”. There is always something that needs our attention and that gets priority. I’m totally aware of the preciousness of life and – I swear – once most of the work for my memoir is behind me, I’m diving into the pleasures of travel and sightseeing again!!!
We’re very careful, Hugh, and try to stay away from people (especially without masks) as much as possible. Like you, we’re curious to find out where we will be on December 25th. Maybe Mexico, if this elections is going the way it seems to…
November 5, 2020 at 05:17
Every hour that passes seems to be having an affect on where you’ll be on December 25th, Liesbet. Well, according to our news in the UK it’s still on a knife-edge, but looking more likely to go the way I know many of us want it to go.
Good for you in delving back into the pleasures of travel and sightseeing once the book is published. Good hard work should always be rewarded. I do miss not being able to do anywhere as near as the fun we had before the pandemic, but I’m glad that pleasures such as being able to finally view the new Twilight Zone show in the UK has now become available to me. That was big pick-me-up for me.
Thank you so much for your comforting words about my recent loss too.
November 5, 2020 at 21:38
Hi Hugh! I hope you are doing okay, but I know you are in good and loving hands! <3
This election ordeal has my heart thump even harder and in a more anxious way than my forthcoming book at times. Last night, I was so worried, I barely slept. Usually, Mark and I are out of the country during elections, but being here and following what’s going on has been mind-blowing. Still no decision on who will be the next president... We continue to keep an eye on the statistics and keep our fingers crossed.
We all indulge in the small pleasures right now, whether it is a TV show or a free campsite at a lake (which is more than a small pleasure to us right now!). And you are so right, every spontaneous decision we make right now will decide where we will be for Christmas. Finding this gorgeous place today, for example, will mean we stay here as long as we possibly can, instead of moving every day or two!
November 3, 2020 at 14:46
I’m so sorry to hear of your aunt’s passing. She sounds like a wonderful person, and my heart hurts for your loss.
It’s nice to hear that you’re enjoying your nomadic life again, but like you, I’d be very uncomfortable in crowded places where few people wore masks. We still only leave home for necessities like groceries and doctor’s appointments – it’s just easier on our nerves. Stay safe out there!
November 4, 2020 at 10:58
Hi Diane!
Because we are self-contained (for six days at a time, at least) and have wheels, we are relatively free to decide where we go and camp. Once my memoir is finished, more freedom will be bestowed upon us. I hope…
We all have to find a balance between “getting out there” to run our lives and calculating the risks. I feel stores are relatively safe now, with mask wearing required and sanitizer stations at the entrances and exits. Sticking to those safety measures, and washing your hands when coming home, seems to do the trick. So far! 🙂
Like you, we feel it’s better for our sanity to avoid human contact with strangers. Or to even be around people not wearing masks where expected, as it puts us in an extremely bad mood and makes us want to run…
November 4, 2020 at 20:26
Same here!
November 5, 2020 at 21:17
Better safe than sorry!! 🙂