More Preparations

More preparations for the road today.  Our plan was to meander toward the southwest and warmer temperatures but we've already modified these plans.  Given that we're leaving after the leaves have already fallen and temperatures at night are frequently below freezing, we want to get to warmer areas sooner rather than later.  If we'd left in September or early October when the temperatures were higher and the foliage was peaking, we'd be more inclined to wander.  I'm not regretting that we're leaving now, though; fall in Maine is fantastic, it's the best time of the year here.  Our other reason for a less-meandering approach is work-related.  M. needs guaranteed full-time access to high speed internet for a few days due to an unexpected development at his place of employment.  So we'll be heading directly to Ohio and a relative's house instead of wandering slowly.

Anxiety is running high.  We haven't left yet and we're already running into challenges.  I see that we'll need to be clear about our priorities and boundaries, and to learn how to let all the other stuff slide.   For me, caring for my health is first priority, not spending more than necessary is second, and having adventures is third.  Caring for my health covers a lot of territory; it's all about managing my environment to keep my pain within reasonable limits:  sufficient restful sleep, periodic stretching and exercise throughout the day, regular meal times and healthy food, and time outside in a non-stressful environment.  I can also see that clear communication with one another about our desires and needs will be important.