Our original departure date was two days ago. Still Here (referencing Bill T. Jones). Enjoying the beautiful fall colors in Maine. Delays are mechanical and woodworking and heating system delays. Nothing major but everyone is busy. Can we imagine that. It isn't possible to settle the living space until these above details are complete. Having not left yet, I have an empty calendar and am at 6s and 7s with how to use my unscheduled time, not there isn't a long list of possible "to do's".

I've been thinking a lot about "getting ready" and "leaving"...and my parents' spirits (my parents, really) are close. All this makes me pensive, a little sad, a little nervous. Getting ready to leave. Leave what? To go where? Why? It's clear what I'm leaving - Freeport, Maine family and friends, our beautiful pond earth and neighborhood, familiar work...all things/people I love dearly. Less clear is where, toward what, we're going - south/South, water journey, new friends, new skills, adventure - are the positives; danger, cold, fear, wetness and, oh dear! the unknown!!! I've ventured into unknown territory many times before so why is this different? I'm older, not as physically strong and flexible, recognize the possibility of injury and that my physical self is not immortal, and I clearly don't see myself as "independent" in this journey acknowledging the need to rely on David and the goodness of friends not yet met. And the "why"? For Love of David. And the new challenge and to push myself out of my comfortable habits...to live fully. There are so many ways to live fully. I'm choosing this path now, while it is still possible.

And then I remember my parents flying off into the morning, literally (in their small airplane), into the unknown. I channel their courage, their love and smile.

Freeport Harbor, 8:30 AM, 10/17/14