Home...Sort Of SeaTac to Olympia

I sit in Tyler and Jessie's computer room writing this. Angie Lang, their friend from high school will be here soon to take me to the Olympia Auto Mall where I will continue my search for a new-to-me car.

But let me back up. In Orlando on Saturday night, my cousin Don drove down from Jacksonville to visit. We had a wonderful time at the hotel and a nice dinner where he entertained us.

I got up the next morning at 5 to catch my plane right downstairs. The flight was uneventful. It was hard leaving my baby who has been so loyal and trustworthy behind. Kelly too. My car, my baby girl...3000 miles away. But the trip made the parting bitter sweet. Had I just put her on a plane and waved goodbye, it would have ripped me apart. But spending the last few days, 24 hours a day with her was a gift. She is wise, strong, resilient, resourceful, and at the same time selfish and impulsive (hmmm...sounds hereditary).

My friend Mike picked me up at the airport. Man, he didn't know what he signed up for when he volunteered to do that. We drove to look at a car for me. I hated it. It had 49 -year -old -failure written all over it. I don't want to be practical. I don't want to be prudent. I don't want to be driving a van. He sensed it. He was nice and said it wasn't a good one anyway.

Then we came here to Olympia where he would try and get Kelly's car to start for me. I called ahead to see if Tyler and Jessie were home. Jessie told me Tyler's dad's family was there doing Christmas. Tyler said come on down, but I could tell he was nervous. I promised him we'd just stay outside and fix the car and I'd be on my way. We dallied on the way down hoping not to disturb. We even grocery shopped. Mike pointed out some nice deals on cat food...helpful. I reminded him I didn't want to buy too much since I wasn't sure just how far my walk home would be.

When we got there, the whole family came out to greet us. They are so nice; but it was so awkward to intrude on their gathering. Denise made me feel better by saying, "You guys are the entertainment."

We couldn't get the car started, so went to the Auto Mall. By this point I was near tears. I was a huge imposition on Mike; I ruined the Christmas for Tyler's family. I told Mike to just put me and my wheelie luggage out and I'd find a ride to Randle. But I think he derived some sick pleasure from this freak show that is my life (he is from Ohio, after all). We shopped for cars. I found several good possiblilties. Today I will wheel and deal. Oh, and best of all? It was fun.

Well, I best get ready. Angie will be here soon.

The trip is over...but being Bobbi goes on...thankfully. I'll wish myself and you all traveling mercies: love the journey; remember God is with you; return home safe and sound.