While unpacking and storing boxes on shelves in the basement, I came across a box with memorabilia from several trips “She Who Must Be Obeyed” had gathered and saved in a room I did not pack up when I evacuated from my domicile of 34 years. I could look at tram receipts, train tickets, boarding passes, museum entrance stubs and the odd collection of beer coasters, napkins, etcetera, etcetera. I knew the background story on every slip of paper. What we did. What we saw, ate and how hard we laughed. Created memories. Memories we shared the last three years of her life when she could no longer talk. But I digress.
Between my childhood military brat travels and trips with Meredith I have visited 19 European countries, Russia and Morocco. As I ponder the world map on this fine spring day, I am seeking a place where the landscape is overpowering, untouched by encroaching “civilization” and has any fast food franchises (which according to my palate is neither fast nor food) desecrated this area. Weather conditions are not an issue as a rainy, cold raw windy day exploring the wild countryside on vacation is better than a sunny day at work. Not that I am currently employed but your catch my drift.
By mid September, the invasion of seekers of exotic locales, thrill rides, and foreign to them cuisine are quickly returning to where ever they regularly rest their heads. Sharing their thousands of digital memories with all who will click on their page. One thing I have noted in the majority of the pictures have no description of why, what, or reason for taking the shot. The Eiffel Tower or Big Ben I can understand but untitled shots of The Basilica of the Sacred Heart can be confusing to travelers who have never seen the White Dome on the hill.
So I have started my preliminary planning. Step one, which no planning can start if this step is not confirmed, current passport. Check. It has 8 years left.
Rabbit Blood. Willie sings it best.