Fully vaccinated, Marty and I were ready to satisfy our social needs. He suggested a long road trip in his Porsche Boxster (his other love). I could do that. In the planning stage, the trip grew like Pinocchio’s nose. We would drive from Florida to California and back; 7000 miles. Oh my! I pondered the struggle getting in and out of those bucket seats.
Fortunately, the Porsche had a cruise control problem. The shop couldn’t fix it in time for the trip. Saved! I quietly cheered. We settled on the sensible Subaru Outback.
What About the Cats
Next we needed to find house/pet sitters. We use an online service, Housecarers.com. Contacted a retired couple that has sat for us before and set it up.
I loaded our food supply with, what a Cajun friend refers to as “Ape Food”. Because any ape could prepare it! Noodle bowls, lunchmeat, cheese, crackers and so on.
Overnights
We have family and friends spread out across the country. Marty and I adjusted our flexible schedule to meet those of others. We are thankful for our hosts in New Orleans, Austin, San Antonio, Apache Junction, Palm Springs and Seal Beach.
Priceline was our go to for other overnight stays. Using the app and searching for an Express Deal saved us money and time. Most rooms were nice. Some brought memories of the Bates Motel.
What Else
Then there were a few bucket list items to consider. Palo Duro Canyon, Texas. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Arches National Park, Utah. Green River, Utah. Fish Lake, Utah. Okay, most of Utah. We also wanted to “experience” some dental work in Mexico. Marty as the test subject, of course.
The outbound journey consisted of visiting people and the dental office. Inbound would include bucket list items.
Medical Tourism
In case you’re curious, the Dental Office is located in Algodones, Mexico. Marty did his research ahead of time. Called and made an appointment. This is how it panned out:
- Park at the lot on the US side in Yuma, Arizona for a nominal fee.
- Walk across the border.
- A driver was waiting for us
- The driver delivered us to the dental office.
- Marty’s assessment was made and 2 root canals performed. Ouch! (Marty said he didn’t feel a thing)
- After treatment, the driver brought us back to the border.
The crowns were ready the next day. The friendly staff filled out and emailed paperwork for our insurance claim. We paid with a credit card. The price was close to half that of the US cost. I should have brushed up on my Spanish.
Success
This journey offered so much for us. We mingled with friends and family we hadn’t seen in years. It was pure joy to be out and about, talking to locals and learning the best places to go for food and fun.
After enjoying much of what Utah has to offer, we headed home. Our last 3 days on the road had few stops and a lot of driving. We were getting mighty tired of Ape Food. Well rested and home again, it’s time to plan our next adventure.
“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” Author Unknown
Until next month, Adios.
Note: This blog is sponsored by me, Karen J Adams. Any recommendations or suggestions are purely my own opinion without the exchange of money.
Unpublished work © 2021 Karen J Adams
