Hello world!

I’m starting this blog because I cannot get one particular Facebook post out of my mind. All of my life I’ve had wanderlust and become antsy and have trouble focusing. You’ll catching me just walking around night after night trying to tire myself enough to sleep until I make my mind up and am off on another adventure. Now I’m having trouble sitting still again, and when this post came up on Facebook, it was a sign–at least I read it as a sign: “Map Points the Way to the Ultimate U.S. Road Trip.” (http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/eco-tourism/stories/map-points-the-way-for-the-ultimate-us-road-trip) Randy Olson plotted the trip and his blog is http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/. The road trip includes a stop at a national landmark in each of 48 states and Washington D.C.

I got to thinking. I lived in Japan for six years and had the opportunity to travel all over Asia, have spent a decent amount of time traveling Europe, stopped in Australia for a visit, stayed a month in Oaxaca, Mexico, but I have never really traveled in my native country. Isn’t that how it is? The thought, “I can always go there.” is a constant when in your own country, but somehow never happens. A trip to France or Mexico for the summer pops up, and there’s no question of going, right?

This summer, I hope to trade in my Manhattan apartment for a car, tent, and some supplies and necessities and hit the road with my dog, Kenobi. We have three months to plan and prepare. The biggest issue has to be a car. Then, there is selling/storing furniture and belongings. Which internet will be best to follow me across and back the entire country? A lot to research.

The one thing that concerns me is that some cities have passed laws against dogs that have the same appearance as Kenobi (American Staffordshire Terrier mix). Will we drive into any of these places? Will there be problems? Or will I have to do extra research to avoid any of these cities? It may not be an issue at all, but I’d hate to be blindsided. I hope to do some camping, but will look into pet-friendly motels along the way, too. How challenging will this be?

Wish us luck, and follow us once we get on the road. Our estimated date of departure is June 30th.