Cross country

Think back on your most memorable road trip.

I drove cross country in my 20s to start a new life, or at least a change.

The journey started with my aunt and her friend. We had 2 cars and 3 drivers. My car was packed with my stuff, ready for my new adventure. It was nerve wracking, exciting, and actually boring at times.

I had driven as far as the Midwest in the past so going through some of the other states was a thrill. Kansas was beautiful, different from other parts of the Midwest I lived. New Mexico was barren but reminded me of the movies with the tumbleweeds and heat coming off the road.

My aunt and her friend stayed in Colorado so I had a few days of traveling by myself- my first time staying in a hotel by myself. I felt like a real adult. I had a near accident in the mountains of Colorado, it’s a story I still tell to this day.

Coming into my destination in California was once again exciting and scary. What was going to happen next?

I stayed there for 2 years. In some ways I wish it had been longer but the memories I have makes it feel like it was longer. It’s funny how a place can feel that way.

I kept a journal of my trip; recording my miles and gas and the stops,we had. I have a few pictures but this was before smart phones, in fact I borrowed my sister’s flip phone for emergency.

Looking back I am so proud of myself for having the guts to do it. I’m proud to have the memories. I’m also really proud to say that I drove cross country. Twice, since I drove home when I returned. I little less exciting but still an adventure. Oh, and by that time the ac had gone in my car so that was adventurous!

I would love to do it again some day, even just part of the country or visit places I have never been. And in a car with ac.