Hitting the road with Deb in mind

Time to blow this popsicle stand.

Get out of Dodge. Hit the interstate.

Roll on down the highway. Feel the road rushing under my wheels.

For a week, anyway.

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The idea came about this way:

Every year my sister Eileen (loyal JWC reader) hosts a Thanksgiving feast the Saturday before. I make it most years because that and my dad’s birthday in March were the only times I generally saw my family in Michigan since moving to Florida nearly four decades ago.

I was unsure about this year. See, I had just moved from the lake house to the cottage, and Bunny and I were getting comfortable. Deb was thinking of staying with Bunny if I flew to Michigan for a few days, but nothing was settled.

Well, God had other plans for Deb. After her passing, the urge to see my siblings for Thanksgiving became a very high priority. The question then became mode of travel.

The government shutdown affected flights, but I was likely avoiding that anyway. Deb and I had some spectacular air travel adventures; even when I flew alone, she always packed me surprises and a loving card.

I can’t see myself getting on an airplane with a stranger sitting next to me. Not right now.

That meant driving. And that also meant it wouldn’t be a quick trip. 

Bunny’s needs became my focal point. How could I board her for a week when all she’s known since December is me?

I explained the dilemma to JWC readers and sought suggestions. A local business, Model Canine, dropped into the conversation, inviting me for a visit.

I did and was immediately impressed. Just had a good feeling right off the bat, you know? My talks with owners Devan and Teagan Mattingly assured me even more than this was a good fit.

We decided on an overnight test run. Bunny was nervous but thrived. Devan and Teagan posted a wonderful video of Bunny playing that included a touching tribute to Deb. When I picked up Bunny the next morning, she was happy to see me but not in an “Oh my gawd, get me out of here!” way.

So, Bunny is set.

Nothing prevents me from taking this trip. Nothing except I know it’s more than simply a long drive to Michigan.

It’s my final trip with Deb.

Part of the journey will take me through the Great Smoky Mountains, where we shared many fun memories. They all rest in my heart, and I know they’ll come out in force over the next several days. I’ll laugh a lot, weep even more, and contemplate the great love God has for this pitiful child (me).

I’m driving Deb’s Kia Soul, which will make memories all the more special. She loved that car, even though she didn’t drive it much. Now I’m behind the wheel, but I feel her presence (in the passenger seat, scrolling her phone, or asleep). 

And, yes, I’ll be blogging the entire trip (paying attention, IRS?). I’m sure that will be lovely.

I need this final alone time with Deb. I realize there’s no limit to grieving, and I’m not suggesting I’ll be A-OK after I return. In fact, I kinda doubt it. 

But I know what this trip represents. I know it, sadly, all too well.

Have a great Tuesday, friends.

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