Going someplace is often the best part of a journey, but heading back home can be mighty nice as well...
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| Me, Arlee Bird, in 2006 in my sister's living room when she lived in New Jersey |
In the Middle of the Road
Whenever I travel I prefer to drive. There's that thing about being in control that I like. If I want to stop somewhere I can. If I want to take a side trip I can do that as well. Driving to me represents freedom. But freedom isn't really free and driving requires time and money. That's what I liked about my job managing a theater company.
Entertainment is a risky business that has left many in heartbreak and disappointment. When you have an offer that provides several months of a guaranteed route of bookings and all expenses paid then it's like getting a vacation funded. I've never understood these rock stars who lament their heavy tour schedules. But maybe they don't have the road in their blood like I do.
At this point in my life I no longer think of a road that goes on forever. There is a destination ahead that I'm taking my time to reach. And there is so much more along the way that I want to savor. I'm going to keep taking chances as though there is a lot of future ahead of me. After all, time is relative...
Battle of the Bands Results
Taking a Chance on Love
The Battle for this song was between two recording artists from the past--June Christy and Ethel Waters. It looks like I presented a good match with these choices as this was a close result.
My favorite video would definitely be the clip with Ethel Waters. Her rendition of the song is fantastic, but I do prefer that cool jazz style of June Christy and her band. If my vote had gone to Ethel Waters then this contest would have been a tie. My vote going to Christy gives her a marginal win.
Final Vote Tally
June Christy 11
Ethel Waters 9
Next Battle on Monday October 1st
I am really pondering some stuff these days. I won't say what it is right now because it's a lot of things. I'm not just aimlessly stuck in the middle of the road, but I am at a crossroads.
Do you like to drive when you travel? Have you ever had a job that required travel that was paid by your employer? What has been your most impactful crossroads decision so far in your life?
It's always nice to return home after being away Arlee. Hey ! I chose the winner this time. Look forward to the next BOTB.
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
Yvonne, as I start heading home after a extended trip I get excited about getting back.
DeleteLee
I don't live driving (because there is always that one car in my way) but I hate to fly. I guess I just don't like the traveling part.
ReplyDeleteAlex, flying would be better if it was more like it used to be. Now it's too uncomfortable and too much hassle.
DeleteLee
When I was doing 50 book signings/speaking engagements a year, I really racked up the miles. My husband pointed out that my goal really shouldn't have been to put my car out of warranty so fast. LOL
ReplyDeleteL.Diane, the nice thing when I was on the road with the show is that the company gave me a new van every few years. We tended to put well over 50,000 miles on a vehicle each year.
DeleteLee
Until a few years ago, I LOVED driving … for much the same reason as you. Unfortunately, the solo trip I took to Florida in July brought me up short. My eyes seem to be are aging faster than the rest of me.
ReplyDeleteMy most impactful decision? Hands down, not waiting for conditions to be perfect to get the heck out of Dodge (Phoenix) and move to Alabama. It's all good!
Myra, my night driving vision is not as good as it used to be, but I never much cared for driving at night.
DeleteWith the location choice you had I think Alabama was a good decision. Phoenix gets so hot--but it is a dry heat (lol).
Lee
I don't mind if someone else drives as long as we are in sync with what we like to do and see. I don't like being on a typical tour that everyone takes because you have no freedom. The only time I like doing that is if it is free like the one I did in July when I was with my dear friend who was the director on that trip. I would love to just close my eyes and pick a spot in Ontario to go to. If I had more time and money, it would be in Canada and, if unlimited money and time...anywhere:) I actually would love to go to the off beat places like seeing the biggest elastic ball in the world, seeing an old railway station still in operation...stuff like that. I also love to take the old roads instead of the freeway because you get to go through small towns that offer so much. I have been in a few crossroads in my life. One that came to mind was a real eye opener that left me wondering why but, at the same time, gave me the life I have now and I am better for it.
ReplyDeleteBirgit, so many cool places to go, but not enough money. I've got the time though. I'm with you on those back road scenic routes. Freeways are great when one is in a hurry and actually some of the interstates are quite scenic.
DeleteLee
I hate flying. Road trips have always been my fave way to go. Or on the train.
ReplyDeleteJoJo, I'm with you about the road. I haven't done much long distance train travel, but I guess that might be nice if the train were going where I wanted to go.
DeleteLee
I don't drive so can't comment on the freedom aspect. But buses and trains are my favourite ways to get to know a country. And walking around for cities. I like travelling as close to the ground as possible.
ReplyDeleteFlying is convenient and a different perspective.
Nilanjana, I prefer to keep my feet on the ground, but flying sure can give you interesting views.
DeleteLee
Lee,
ReplyDeleteI went with the winner in your latest BoTB. *applauds* Wow, here we are the end of September! I can't believe sometimes how fast the year is slipping by. *sigh*
My answers to your questions...
Driving is my preferred means of travel except I'd rather DH do nearly all the driving. :) I get a bit too tense behind the wheel.
No, I have never had a job that required driving nor paid for travel expenses. In our early years, DH had to work in Alabama at one TVA's plants. They paid for his living arrangements, food, and gave him a company car. I didn't like it when he was gone.
I'll see you on Monday if not before then and I'm intrigued by your middle of the road mindset. Have a great day. It's time to make my morning coffee. :)
The most impactful crossroads was the decision to have children. That's a huge one! Children can bring you ever bit as much happiness as heartbreak. I wouldn't do anything any different, either.
Cathy, you are more like my wife about driving--she'd always prefer that I be behind the wheel, although she'll spell me when I need the rest.
Delete"Middle of the road mindset" is intriguing me--or at least occupying my thoughts these days.
Lee
I was in the US Air Force, and I also used to work in the Telecommunications Industry, so I was literally traveling all the time. Driving and by plane. Then there was a phase where I just wanted to drive to places to check out the sites and cool treasures. Now I'm pretty much a homebody, but I would still travel to Switzerland, Sweden or Canada if I won a trip.(lol) Hugs...RO
ReplyDeleteRO, I too have a tendency to be a homebody, but when I get on the road I start getting more enthused about the travel. I've done a lot of travel in Canada and I loved it.
DeleteLee
I have never flown and would love to. I love traveling, not the driving so much. Going home is always so good. It's the bed that calls us home. :)
ReplyDeleteTeresa, flying with more legroom and minimal boarding hassle would be very nice. As it is on the airlines is not my favorite thing to do.
DeleteI always look forward to sleeping in my own bed after I've been away from home for a while.
Lee
I don"t care much for driving several hours to see scenery. But I don't mind driving for work. I do need the destination, a purpose. I like my traveling job for that reason. I would prefer to do it in a motor home :)
ReplyDeleteDolorah, a destination is a good idea though I might not mind meandering if time wasn't an issue and money was in great abundance. I've thought about a motor home, but don't know that I'd go that route. And nice ones can be pretty expensive.
DeleteLee
On and off for 22 years I traveled on business. The rule was that you drove on any trip under 200 miles, and there were times I was sorely tempted to drive on longer trips, because trying to squeeze all 350 pounds of me into an airline seat is an uncomfortable proposition at best. On vacations, we always drove, because Mary hates to fly, and I did the lion's share of the driving, because Mary is intimidated by the Interstates. I actually enjoyed the drives on the open road.
ReplyDeleteSince the stroke, Mary does all the driving, and we rarely if ever go more than 5 miles from home. That suits me just fine.
I'm glad June Christy won. Like I said, her version swings, and I love the combo backing her.
John, I guess if I couldn't drive I would adapt (I'd have to!), but I'd miss driving terribly. If I'm not on a trip then I tend to stay home a lot and drive only short distances unless I absolutely have to drive farther.
DeleteLee
Yes, well, I still prefer Ethel’s! Yes, I like to drive. Yes, I’ve had a trip or two paid for by my boss, and my crossroads decision was to devote my time to being a writer...!
ReplyDeleteLisa, career change is almost always I huge decision--especially when it is so unknown like writing.
DeleteLee
I take very few vacations, but the ones where I remember the place I went to well, I drove and was alone. Go figure.
ReplyDeleteHarry, some of my best long road trips were by myself. It makes for good contemplative time.
DeleteLee
You sound like a man who enjoys an adventure. Personally, I would never drive if I didn’t have to. I prefer to see the scenery and take the pictures. Now I must find this Ethel Waters clip you speak of.
ReplyDeleteVee, I've always been somewhat adventurous though I do like my comfort.
DeleteLee
We don't travel much, but when we do, we typically drive, with me behind the wheel. My husband falls asleep after too long in the car, so it's safer if I'm driving.
ReplyDeleteI hope the crossroads is a good thing and your options are all favorable.
Loni, I feel safe when my wife drives, but she's usually not thrilled about doing the driving.
DeleteThe options facing me might be favorable in the end, but the decisions are challenging.
Lee
If I can't travel by car, truck, horseback, or on foot, I just don't go. I consider the things you see along the way extensions of the adventure.
ReplyDeleteThere was a time when I traveled once a month for business. I dreaded the trips at first because of who I had to drive with. During the course of numerous truck-stop lunches, a flat tire on a desolate stretch of highway, and running out of gas once, I realized we'd actually developed a friendship.
Walking away from one of my long-time jobs was not so much a crossroads as a much-needed off ramp. Wasn't at all sure where it would lead, but it was worth a try. Sometimes a change makes all the difference.
I love that mural on the wall of your sister's house!
Happy trails, my friend.
Diedre, travel companions can make a journey uncomfortable or great fun. Preferably I have a travel buddy who doesn't complain about everything.
DeleteMy sister's house in NJ was beautiful, but she gave it up to move to TN where she has a nice house but no murals on the walls.
Lee
Hi Lee - you've always travelled ... so it must be in the blood - but love the photo ... going away is fun, getting home is great ... take care - Hilary
ReplyDeleteHilary, I practically grew up in the backseat of a car (or the front seat if it was only me and one of my parents).
DeleteLee
I dislike being on the road because there are too many cameras. I prefer walking in the woods. Hope the trip has been great.
ReplyDeleteJ, cameras don't particularly bother me. They are all over the place including the neighborhood in which I live. I enjoy walking in the woods, but not much of that where I live now.
DeleteLee