I’m running out of clever for titles. As we continue our preparation for travel we are deeply involved in following the collision that will start on November 5, the ongoing heartache of war in the Middle East and the rising tide of anti-Semitic hate in the world and in the US. All of this is leading to loss of sleep, especially when piled on top plans for departure.
I would think that getting ready to leave would be the least of our worries since we have done this almost every year since 2002, with some intermediate departures along the way. Somehow as our 82nd birthdays are approaching everything seems just a bit more difficult, both physically and mentally. A couple of days ago we stopped by the coach, in storage, to be sure the batteries were topped up – grateful for an effective solar system which I had installed many years ago – checking for leaks given the rain we have experienced and being sure there was no flat tire to deal with. All is good as of now.
Just had an email from our planned first stop in Cleveland cancelling our reservation. Its a Harvest Host Winery and apparently they have upset their neighbors and sleeping in a vehicle is not permitted in the area. This set off a scramble on my part to find a place to stay near the city. Well an hour away is the best I can do. We will drive in in the morning and spend the day. Once I got started I had to make plans for the week or two following. After a stop in Columbus OH – less than a week before election day, our next reserved stop is Tom Sawyer RV Park in West Memphis AR for three nights of watching barge traffic on the Mississippi. Election Day it appears we will be in Dallas. That should be interesting. Plans after Tom Sawyer are still in unset Jello as far as timing. We will be watching the news to stay away from trouble spots to the extent possible.
Circling back to the beginning, I worry, I lose sleep, for the United States, for Israel, for the world. Not least I am concerned about the rising anti Semitism which seems to be able to threaten us and our family very personally.
More from the road.
82? You’re a youngster! Happy Birthday (when it comes), safe travels, let’s pray for our country, Good Shabbos. Marty
Happy Birthday to both of you. We must make a plan to get together after our trip to South America and Antartica..hoping the world isn’t in total chaos by then…we worry too! Sending hugs. đź’•
Be thankful for our many blessings and at every
chance, pray for PEACE in our troubled world.
He is disappointed and sad as we destroy what
has been given to us.
Ava Shalom
May God watch over you and protect you as you travel back to California. I, too, have lost sleep over this anti-Semitism. The Jewish people are God’s children and we, Christians, are adopted children. All this hate is really troubling to me. I have 3 bi-racial granddaughters, all of who, to my knowledge, have not had any problems, but I do worry about the racial hatred that still exists as well. I also worry about the USA! Why can’t we all just respect and love each other? I guess that is a question that has no answer. Just know that you and Carol are in my prayers and I wish you the very best. I hope your holidays this year were very good! Stay in touch – you are a great inspiration to me.
Much Love – Darlene
May God watch over you as you continue your travels back to California. I, too, have lost sleep over all this anti-Semitism. The Jewish people are God’s Chosen Ones, and we, Christians, are God’s Adopted Ones. I also worry about my 3 bi-racial granddaughters, ages 24, 21, and 18. So far I have not heard of any problems that they have had. I just don’t know why we can’t appreciate what God has given us in the USA and just show love and care for one another. I guess that is a question that will never be answered. Know that you are in my prayers and I hope your holidays were very good! I will keep you and Carol in my prayers and please stay in touch. You are a great inspiration to me. Much Love – Darlene
True adventure! Happy72nd birthday to both of you!! I am at The Landing on Westfall Rd an assisted living facility. My life surely is not as adventurous as yours. If you’re every in Rochester please look me up. I would love to see you !! Safe travels!! How is your health? Donna Adams
Wishing you both safe travels and good health.
Gosh–we’ve known each other for a long time! Mrs. Hansen’s kindergarten or later?
Yes Mrs Hansen’s first grade for sure. As long as I have known Ann Carol. We are still in touch with a few from then, Tom Daniel, Bill Freedman, Helen Schwartz(?) Others are gone.