Rebecca's Travel Notes

I was asked the question, “Should I travel?” Of course, my answer was “Yes, go!” I know traveling is scary at times especially if your an introvert.But, regret is an unsettling feeling that never goes away.

Here’s my perspective: I have taken care of my parents for the last decade. My mom had pancreatic cancer and died in 2018 after a long and courageous battle. She regretted not traveling more. Even small road trips were difficult at the end.

My dad has vascular dementia; he’s in the late stages. His mind is slowly growing dim. Many people refer to dementia as long goodbye. It’s a horrible disease that robs a person of their memories.

I have learned many things caring for my parents.

Time is Precious

If you want to go somewhere because the location is your “happy place.” Go! Even if you are middle-age and want to go the Wizarding World, go! Sit in the park and soak everything in until your happy meter bursts. Actually, the Wizarding World in Florida is on my bucket list. I completely understand her desire to go.

Be brave. I never thought I would go to New York. I went two years ago. I loved the big city. I am returning this year. I am attending the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The event is on my bucket list.

Go for Rides

Don’t underestimate going on simple car rides. Pack snacks, drinks, and a camera. Yes, I know gas is expensive. But sometimes driving the back roads with no real destination are the greatest learning experience.

I often drive my father by his childhood home. In broken words and often repeats, he can still tell me stories. I know, this will not last. I listen to his stories. I write them down.

As a photo enthusiast, we always are on the look out for wildlife, nature, and the perfect setting. My dad loves to see the photos on the wall. I enjoy watching him stare at my photos. He sometimes cannot believe I took the photo. Other times, he tells me, he was with me.

Eat the Ice Cream

When my mother was battling cancer and going through chemo, she wanted ice cream for breakfast. So, I took her to get ice cream. Many people complained. At her next appointment, I finally told her nurse that I let her eat ice cream for breakfast.

Her answer to my surprise and relief, “Let her.” Pancreatic cancer is horrible. Towards the end, I would have loved to watch her eat ice cream.

When you travel or have a craving, eat the ice cream or order dessert. Now, I am not telling you to go completely unhealthy. But once in awhile, give yourself a treat.

Know Your People

I cannot stress enough to find your people. There are some people even relatives that require too much energy. Let’s face it, life can be hard at times. The last thing you need is more stress. Sometimes you just need to move on from friendships and relatives that are toxic.

Keep the people who support you in your life. The ones who want to travel and try new things. The ones who understand last minute cancellations due to responsibilities at home. The ones who bring you boxes of tea (I love trying new teas. I am drinking a hot tea right now). Or drop off food to help you out on tough days. The ones who know glass bottles of cream soda are your favorite.

Dance

I know, it sounds crazy. When you are in a crowd at a concert or community event and you want to dance, do it. Who cares who is watching or how old you are. I remember my great aunt dancing at a Concert in the Park show. She was well into her golden years. But she loved the old time music. Next to her chair, she swayed back and forth. She didn’t care who saw her. She just wanted to dance.

When you view life at later stages, you realize the only thing that counts is happiness. Here is my advice. Take the trip. Eat the ice cream. Celebrate with those who support you. Do not forget to dance.

I’m off my soapbox now. Have a great day everyone! Happy travels!