Bench Monday – Boondocking

If anyone placed their money on “the toilet” breaking next, you won!

We had hopes of hitting Tucson early enough to meet some local unschoolers. But a smelly leaking toilet doesn’t let you get far. Instead we spent the morning sniffing sewage and laughing hysterically as one thing after another happened. (A sopping Justin wrangling a rouge water hose was the highlight of the morning. But really, must it always be water-related?!)

Tonight we’re boondocking in the desert and I’m hoping the clouds will clear long enough for me to get a clear view of the most stars I’ve ever seen. As soon as we pulled onto BLM land and found our spot amongst the other travelers, we felt at home. There is something magical about the self-reliance of needing nothing but an open spot to park, something enjoyable about the quiet and seclusion…something laughable about it all – the stars, the hooting owl, the peace – being free of charge.

Zeb is doing really wonderful on the road, building fires, making jokes and playing games. I’m still struggling with feeling overwhelmed, but I must say my husband is amazing. He reaches for my hand as we’re driving to calm my nerves. He takes a time out to hug (and re-energize) me. And as we pulled up tonight he suggested I go for a walk with my camera to center myself. It’s always just what I need.