Who is this new person I am? This now widowed woman who even as I grieve for my late husband, is contemplating with awe the fact I can do whatever I want. So, what do I want to do? What do I want out of life? What do I want to become?
I know some of things I want to do. Like just go back to enjoying the simple pleasures of life like walking, hiking, taking drives in the country, enjoying Market Days, Saturdays on Main Street. All the things I was doing before Larry became so sick, and during his battle with that illness. I don’t want to lose my ability to feel joy in those simple pleasures.
I also want to keep spreading my wings, and pushing my limits. So I will also do brave and daring things like buy a tent, and go overnight tent camping sometimes. Naturally I will want a spot near the bathing facilities, with electricity and water. Fortunately, many such tent camping spots can be found. Okay so getting next to the restrooms isn’t always easy. But if I plan well, and make reservations, it can be done. I explained my idea of tent camping to my son. “I am getting one of those sites with electricity and running water. Preferably, really close to the restrooms. I am taking an ice chest of sandwiches and stuff because I’m not camping to cook. Oh, and show me the way to the nearest Church’s Chicken on the way to the campsite.”
He replied, “Mom, that defeats the whole purpose of tent camping.”
I looked at Muffy, who I knew would agree with me and said, “Not in my world, kid. But if it makes you happy, I’ll roast a hot dog on the grill or campfire.”
I seriously would love to spend an evening watching the sunset in Guadalupe River State Park, after spending the day hiking in it. I seriously do not want to drive back from there after the sunset. So, an overnight tent camping adventure at Guadalupe River State Park is now one of the other things I know I want to do. I can hike all day, sit and watch the sunset, perhaps as I’m eating my Church’s Chicken, or even grilling a hot dog. Who knows? I might even watch the sunrise as I sip my morning tea.
Adventure, that’s what I want out of life! I want all kinds of little adventures, and a few big ones. If I take those adventures, then I will become what I want to be. Which is a strong woman living life on her terms.
