Earlier today

Me: I’m so not feeling that stupid pass today.

Daddy: me neither. But we can do it!

Me: I know we can, I don’t want to. I’m asking three people for a ride up when we get to Virginia City. I at least have to try.

In Virginia City (scene- a popcorn/knife store)

Daddy, talking with the proprietress about our trip: Yeah, we’re really not looking forward to that pass. We’ve heard it’s a pretty big one.

Fred, husband and knife-maker (joking): For a small fee I’ll take you up.

Me: Really? You can’t joke about stuff like that. I’m sold.

Fred (trying not to show surprise): Sure, ok. Come on back when you’re ready to go and I’ll take you up.

Later, in the truck

Me: Well this is making my day significantly better. Thank you so much for taking us.

Fred: Yeah, well, I’m supposed to be dusting the store today. I’m terrible at dusting. You know Cameron’s not that far, I can take you there if you want…

Me: No, thanks, we have to do some work today!

Fred (resigned): Ok, well I’ll just drop you here then.

Thanks Fred!

For the record, we bought lots of popcorn.

Answer A:

Repeat ad nauseam to cashiers, waitstaff, campground hosts, etc.

Well I’ve never been anywhere in the middle of the country. East coat, West coast, but nothing in between except the Chicago airport. And I wanted to be able to take my time and really see it.

Answer B:

For kindhearted hosts, professional acquaintances, and good listeners

It’s been kind of a shitty year personally and politically, and I felt like I needed to get out of my comfort zone and meet people I otherwise wouldn’t meet. The election made it clear to me that I don’t know very much about a lot of people and places in this country, and that I don’t understand where they’re coming from, what motivates them. So I thought I’d get out on the road and try to meet some new people, see some of our beautiful national parks (while we still have them), and get some time and space to think and regroup.

Answer C:

Repeat in quiet moments, to oneself

I know it’s been a rough year for you. That’s why you’re doing this, remember? To get back to yourself. To be inspired. To practice patience with yourself. It’s ok that you’re taking a break right now. It’s ok to be disappointed and frustrated and angry and sad and lost and fractured. Now let’s just sit with that. Or rather, ride with it.

Daddy: Stop at that next pull-off for a water break.

45 minutes later

Me: I’m stopping at that driveway for a water break.

1 hour later

Me: Look, cows

Daddy: I’m going to stop at that tree for a water break.