Preparing for Launch
Since this isn’t our first road trip rodeo, we thought we knew what to do:
Create an itinerary and a budget
Decide what to put in storage and what to bring with us
Get rid of everything else
See friends and do stuff in Tampa before we leave
Move out, load up the car, hit the road
As with many things, it was more difficult than expected. For example, lodging prices are higher and our budget is smaller than they were in 2021. And although we did some serious purging of possessions before the last road trip, we plan to be in a smaller apartment when we return, so a lot of stuff had to go. Maria sold a few things and found new homes for many more items (including 20+ houseplants) through her Buy Nothing group, which was satisfying but time-consuming.
“Do stuff in Tampa” meant putting our financial/legal/medical affairs in order and checking off a few more bucket list items, like the backstage tour at the Tampa Theatre (terrific!).
We did our own packing over several weeks. On Moving Day, the movers did a fine job, but it was still stressful. After the long, tiring day, we relaxed with Steve’s parents at their lovely home in Apollo Beach, where we spent the night. The following morning was sunny and cool - a beautiful day for a drive, and a perfect start to our new adventure.
