A Once in a Lifetime Trip Or Not?

7 years ago today I packed up my Honda Accord and left Seattle, my home for the previous year, and started a 43 day solo adventure on the West Coast.

I had decided to move to Bozeman, Montana to be with my long distance boyfriend and chose to take the long way around.

I spent 43 days working remotely and making my way through Oregon, California, Arizona, Utah, and Montana.

Hiking, farmer’s markets, coffee shops, nights on the beach, yoga classes, National Parks, tiny towns, giant lakes, new foods, and a new Airbnb every couple of nights, led me finally to a new life with my partner.

I survived the Arizona summer with temperatures so hot that my yoga mat melted in my car. I learned that they provide ice with groceries in Phoenix and the most coveted parking spots are where a tree can provide shade - even if that means a further distance to walk.

I learned the cheapest place for coffee and breakfast was at a grocery store.

I valued my time at each National Park along the way and in total I visited six.

I disliked Los Angeles.

I learned about the mormon culture in SLC and experienced first-hand how it impacted society.

This trip changed me. But it wasn’t “once in a lifetime”. It was one of many. Fortunately, my trips since then have mostly included that guy.

Last month we celebrated 3 years married.

I don’t believe in letting dreams stay dreams for long.

I take action. I work toward my dreams. I make the trip happen. Life is too short to wait.

Photo on a trail overlooking Lake Tahoe