Freedom - #11

For me, it's all about freedom. 

I like flexibility and although I am very responsible, take commitment seriously, am reliable when I give my word to someone - it's been important to me to limit stressful situations or having too much to do.

Living in a much smaller space has cut my cleaning down to a fraction of the time I previously spent. Keeping material and household items, furnishings and clothing to a minimum allows to keep track of what I have, stay organized and eradicate excess spending on duplicate items.  I work toward zero-waste with food - buying what I need and using it up before I purchase new.  I like keeping things simple and uncluttered and very neat. I'm good at minor repairs and am frequently retightening a hinge or door knob, lubricating a squeak, touching up with paint. Having less to me equals more control and a less stressful environment. It has taken me over 60 years to get here!

Recently, I made the decision to allow my hair color to go natural and for me that means gray. I've gotten some positive and negative feedback from friends and family, but I feel pretty good about it and ultimately, it's my decision.  Charlie obviously seems to be okay with it as he spends a lot of time chasing around after me when he's not in his hamshack. 

I love being on the open road, driving - not under pressure - not in a rush. This is also a great feeling of freedom to me. I love being outdoors!

My biggest worry about not participating in the driving with the trailer in tow; Charlie's driving makes me very nervous. Whenever we leave someplace, anyplace - whether home or the supermarket, doctor's office, campground, friends house - as he puts the vehicle in drive, he prefaces our departure with the statement "Let's get the hell out of here." Firstly, you'd think we just had a bad experience and need to leave in a hurry or we did something illegal. Secondly, where are we in a rush to go?  On the road, I often think men envision they are in some kind of road race.  They don't like anyone to pass them, they drive way too close to the vehicle directly in front of them and there is a lot of derogatory commentary about other drivers. It's all slightly more nerve wracking when you're dragging your house behind you. Therefore, I will be practicing deep breathing techniques and mindful meditation as we make our way to the winter retreat. I'm preparing myself now.