2026, Apr 4 - On the Road Again

Dearest Charlie,

Just a quick update since my last post.

As you know, I’m on my way to New York for this new job.

I stopped for a couple of days to visit Mom before heading on, which was nice. I needed that pause more than I realized.

I’ve been a little worried about my car the whole way, but she’s holding up. I’ve been checking the oil religiously, and so far I haven’t had to add any. That alone feels like a small victory.

And you are not going to believe this… Do you remember the AutoZone manager I dated before you? The one I dumped to be with you? Well, I ran into him today. Turns out he moved to Georgia and lives about ten minutes from Mom.

We stood there and talked for a bit, catching up on life, and I have to tell you - I was shocked at how much he remembered. Details from our very first meeting… things from our dates… from over 30 years ago!

Thirty years, Charlie.

I could not believe it.

Funny how life circles back around sometimes.

Anyway, after all that, I made a long stretch on the road today. I had planned to stay at one of the state parks, but everything looked booked up. So… Mom stepped in and got me a hotel room for the night.

I didn’t argue.  I will have to remember to stop and check these places out on the return trip home.

I’ll finish the last leg of the trip tomorrow and start work on Monday.

And here’s the part that’s got me a little spun up…

They’re expecting me to have housing lined up by Monday afternoon, and I just don’t see how that’s going to happen. So now I’m scrambling- looking at cheaper options, maybe a state park bunkhouse, maybe even a primitive campsite if it comes down to it.

Which, by the way… Did you know there are bears in New York? Because apparently there are. I don’t know why I thought they were just an “out west” thing, but now I’m over here considering camping and also wondering if I’m about to get eaten.

I swear, I feel like I’m losing my mind a little bit lately.  But underneath all of that…I’m also excited. And nervous. And trying to walk into this new job like I know what I’m doing - even though I don’t always feel like I do.

But I’m going anyway.  I drove all the way up here for it.  So, I’ll figure it out.  You know I always do.

I just wish you were here to talk me through it… or remind me that I’ve got this, even when I don’t feel like it.

I miss you muchly and Love you always,

Me