“First trip from the new home.”
Ron’s words as he pulled himself into the Dodge marked the beginning of our venture northeast to visit Laura and family, as well as do a little work.
“Are you still willing to do a website for the church?” Laura asked a few weeks ago through text. With my affirmative answer, the wheels started turning, leading to a weekend visit to meet with staff, and gather video and pictures to use.
“Beautiful weather for a road trip.” Summing up the rainy weather well, Ron’s sarcasm spoke louder than his words.
“We have to turn around.”
About a half-hour into the trip, the DEF System code appeared on the dashboard, immediately causing Ron to make the decision to return home and not risk the truck going limp, which means shutting down and unable to restart.
Rain pouring, traffic flowing and texts flying our plans changed quickly as we prayed we would make it back to the house. Thankfully we did, unhooking and immediately taking the truck to the dealership before it shutdown.
Back home again, unpacked and resigned, Laura and I came up with an alternate plan, staying with them and keeping the dogs separated with crates.
“We’ll be on the road in twenty minutes.” Texting the message to Laura, we had the Subaru packed and loaded in that time frame. However, as soon as I sat in the passenger seat I saw the spider crack meandering across the windshield. A truck threw a rock the day before and it had already spread that far in just a day.
“Do you think we should take this?” I asked Ron. That debate ended with us switching to the Tesla and starting a third attempt to get to Laurel.
“Did you grab the bright colored bag from the Subaru?”
During our quick transfer from one car to the next, my camera bag that held birthday presents for Laura and Carolanne, as well as dog food and leashes didn’t make the transition. I realized it when I looked for my tripod to film the crossing of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.
One thing after another describes the onset of this trip.
“Bad timing, Ron,” talking to himself, we have no idea what caused this short stop.
After a quick pit stop at PetSmart to pick up supplies for the dogs, we made it to Laura’s around 7:30 where dinner awaited us. We left at noon for the three hour drive and made it 7 1/2 hours later, but we made it.
Time with the McFarlins always renews and refreshes our hearts, well worth the trip!
“Happy Birthday Laura!”
Troy’s words reminded us of the special day we got to share together as we lounged around the kitchen table, enjoying each other’s company. Carolanne’s cinnamon rolls filled bellies, and Troy made eggs for everyone one, a delicious way to start the day.
While the chickens ran free and Laura and Carolanne got ready for our girls birthday lunch, Ron and I went to Salisbury, returning the unneeded items to PetSmart. I got a haircut at Great Clips, and Ron charged the Tesla, then back to the McFarlins.
Dropping off Ron with the guys, Laura, Carolanne and I went to Panera where we celebrated their birthdays that brought joy to my world! Shopping at Uptown Cheapskate, Kid to Kid, as and Target topped off our afternoon.
Laura’s birthday evening brought friends together for church business. We worked together to create a website for their church, Narrow Way while enjoying hot ham and cheese rolls, macaroni and cheese, with broccoli casserole. Shannon’s strawberry cake, Laura’s favorite, made the perfect dessert.
Sunday service at Narrow Way uplifted our souls. Larry’s message inspired a book idea, the worship music energized us, and spending time with friends always brings joy to our hearts.
A quick lunch at Chili’s filled our bellies for the ride home. Hugs goodbye as we left the restaurants ushered us down the road. Until next time.
