Yesterday, I had the privilege of speaking with Suzanne, author of the Twenty Four at Heart blog. She interviewed me about my upcoming journey, and you can read her article here. I’ve been reading Suzanne’s blog for several months, and she’s really an amazing person. She was in a serious car accident three years ago and has been through a hellish amount of pain, many surgeries, and continued therapy on an arm/shoulder she now only has partial use of, but somehow she’s managed to keep a wonderful sense of humor — her blog posts alternately make me laugh, blush, or cry depending on her mood.

People have asked me if I’m nervous about my upcoming journey, and of course I am, but no more so than I’d be about staying here wondering about when, how, or if I was ever going to be able to live out my dream of traveling the country to meet people and write stories. I was half-hoping (okay, a little more than half) that the Ford Motor Company would like my idea enough to sponsor me with a more reliable vehicle than my ’86 Bronco, but I got the no yesterday. I was a little bummed since I’m a huge Ford fan but there is an upside. Having a sponsor usually means having to tread a little more carefully, keeping in mind that their company is also part of your endeavor, and that their customers may not always appreciate what you’re doing. While I don’t plan on Glenn Beck-ing any of my subjects, it’s freeing to be able to write anything I want without considering the effect it might have on a sponsor.

Besides, Hank’s feelings might be hurt if I left him behind. Yes, I have that kind of attachment to my vehicles — the kind that gives them names and personalities. Hank is a rough and tumble kind of guy, a little rusty, but very loyal. He never fails to start, and though he may not be as quick or handsome as he once was, his engine still purrs and his heater still works.

I have a lot of work to do before Hank and I can hit the road. There’s an apartment to disassemble, packing to be done, loads of stuff to give to the Vets and the Lupus Foundation, and oh yes. . .the surprise packages I’m giving away here. If you haven’t entered my blog-naming contest, please do. The contest ends this Sunday.

I sincerely thank everyone for their support, and cannot wait to get started on my new adventure!

Update 9/20 – Comments now closed. Winners being chosen and will be notified tonight!

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