Cutting Back - First Round

Took out one milk crate and the rack. 

My kitchen. 

Yesterday I decided I had about twice as much in the van than I needed. I should have known. I’ve spent 2 months each year, for ten years, walking the Caminos of Spain with only what would fit in a 30L pack. So I’m not sure why I thought I needed 4 pair of jeans and 6 shirts on my van adventure!

At first I thought I’d box it all up and ship it back home to Portland. But then I realized I could drive an hour and a half and leave it at the desert house until I return to Portland in April. So I drove back to desert Hot Springs, and today I cleared out about half of my clothes, food, and other items I really don’t need.

I decided I could live without for things like the ice chest and extra jeans and shirts. I dumped the screen drawer and one of the milk crates. I kept all of my watercolor supplies but got rid of about half of my tools.  In the end I ended up with about 2 feet more space than I had before and I’m really happy with the results.

I visited my evil twin Vicki while I was here. We sat in a hot tub this morning and caught up. It was a nice visit and I really enjoyed the gift she gave me when I left. Thanks Vicki!  I want more!

I struggled with a couple of days of depression this week. There was a combination of sudden changes all at once that pushed me over the edge. I don’t often get depressed but when I do, I usually hit bottom fast and bounce right back. It doesn’t take much for me to remember to count my blessings   I have a wonderful life, 3 beautiful sons, 3 talented grandchildren, and some good old friends who love me. I wake up healthy and alive every morning and I’m very grateful. 

Tomorrow I’m going to the desert museum in Palm Springs and then I’m going to do some hiking up in the canyon. Afterwards, I may camp out at the casino for the night - the following day I’ll head to the Salton Sea for a few days. Then on to Borrego Springs to do some birding and hiking. I need to start slowly training for the spring Camino. My tailbone is still awfully sore from the fall I took on my son’s steps; I’m out of shape and need to get busy. May will be here before I know it. Time to get busy walking!

Looking forward to the next few weeks. 

Love,

Annie