HINTS & TABLE OF CONTENTS

Hello Everyone

Thank you for tuning in and hope you enjoy my journey as much as I did.  It was such a treat to relive my amazing journey as I published my journal notes and organized photos into these blogs.

To help you, I made a few notes to hopefully make negotiating the blog a little easier.

1.  Ignore date of each post in orange above the post.  It is meaningless - had to do it this way to have the posts appear as you would read a book vs. a real time dairy.  The correct dates are contained within each post.

2.  You can't go to a specific blog through the table of contents.  You must scroll down to where you want to be.  

3.  Each blog page contains approximately 4 posts.  Scroll down the page until it doesn't scroll any more and at the bottom on each blog page click "older posts" (in orange) to continue the journey.  There are 7 blog pages.

4.  If you want to scroll down to a particular part of the journey, here is table of contents so you can quickly scroll to a particular post.  I mention this because the journal is long and you might want to read at leisure over time.

Blog 1
     IS IT POSSIBLE?

     PLANTING SEEDS

     THE FABULOUS MOLLY

     A TEAM EFFORT

     DO I REALLY KNOW WHAT I AM DOING?

     BON VOYAGE

Blog 2

     THE JOURNEY BEGINS
     MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

     THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS ARE JUST AHEAD

     ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, COLORADO

     DURANGO, COLORADO

Blog 3

     MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK, COLORADO

     ARCHES NATIONAL PARK, UTAH

     THE GREAT SALT LAKE, UTAH

     EASTERN OREGON & ROCK SLIDES

     GRANTS PASS & CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK, OREGON   

     SPOKANE, WASHINGTON & BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Blog 4

     OREGON COAST VIA OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, WASHINGTON

     LAKE TAHOE, NEVADA

     YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA

Blog 5

     SONORA, CALIFORNIA LAY-OVER

     SUNNYVALE, MOUNTAIN VIEW, 50TH HS REUNION, CALIFORNIA

     HEADING HOME

     HOOVER DAM, NEVADA

     ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAH

Blog 6

     BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK, UTAH

     SEDONA & GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, ARIZONA

Blog 7

     SURPRISE, ARIZONA

     HOME IS CALLING ME HOME

     EPILOGUE 

ENJOY 

IS IT POSSIBLE?

Pilot, Writer and Photographer:  Jean Hoffman

Co-Pilot Extraordinaire and GPS Navigator:  Molly

Notables: 2011 GMC Acadia; 2013 23’ Skyline Koala Travel Trailer;

Necessities:  Maps, Water and Snacks

Time Frame:  July 14, 2012 to October 26, 2012

Miles:  11,350       Photos:  1,120 (modified to about 300)

One photo for every 100 miles, what obsessive person planned this?

“Never let the odds keep you from doing what you know in your heart
you were meant to do.”  ~ H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

The big question for me is whether or not I can give a hearty, unequivocal ‘yes’ to a new adventure.  My philosophy, borrowed from someone else, has stuck in my mind for years. 

“I’d like to make footprints in the sands of time, but you can’t make footprints in the sands of time if you’re sitting on your butt… unless your intent is to make butt-prints in the sands of time.” ~ unknown    

I chose to risk the unknown and not be swallowed up by stagnation and lack of challenges.  Once in a while the soul needs a different perspective to heighten a sense of purpose and engage with who we think we are or wish to be.  The journey itself is my objective as much as reaching a destination.  The impact of that journey may take years to be fully realized, but the magic of it all will last forever.

“The worst curse to befall anyone is stagnation, a banal existence, the quiet desperation that comes out a need for conformity.”  ~ Deepak Chopra

PLANTING SEEDS

The seeds of this trip to explore and rediscover the western states, our magnificent national parks and reconnect with family and friends were planted in my heart 25 years ago.  Unfortunately, my wish did not find the necessary nourishment to grow.  The circumstances never seemed right. 

My motives were not exactly what they seemed.  Beneath the surface of this time worn, and medically compromised body lies the heart of a woman who loves adventure, cherishes a day never the same as the last, savors every moment and creates memories for a life time.  Most importantly, I wanted to discover not only the many aspects of our country but better understand the aspects of myself.    My daughter loves to create mosaics and my son to create wood carvings.  So, much like their crafts, I will collect and connect the reflective pieces of my life.  I will then carve, polish and cure the images.  And who knows, I might start all over again next year, or years from now, taking another path.

I’m starting this voyage with only a few rules:  I promise to start each day with a cup of coffee while giving thanks for the wonders of the preceding day and ask for guidance on the new day’s journey.   I vow not to live in fear -- except for lions, tigers and bears.  I will allow my thoughts and memories to release a continuous thread of revelation.  I will only share with others those things I am comfortable with sharing.  Although there are multiple events and people that contributed to my standing on the threshold of adventure, four events were stand-outs.  

First, there was a trip in 1998 with my adventuresome daughter Tammy to the Alpine countries of central Europe that set the stage for a “can-do” attitude and a need for an organized plan.  No tour guide or crowded buses for us.  I planned the trip myself and learned the joy and fun of planning and dreaming never knowing until the last minute if we could really go – mostly financial concerns.  I learned many lessons, especially the merits of correctly pacing myself.  Slow down and take time for experiences, quality over quantity.  I don’t know the source of this saying but it’s one of my favorites.

“People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.”  ~ unknown

Secondly, my son Will was involved in a life threatening accident from which he thankfully survived.  Among the many feelings associated with such a horrendous accident, it reminded me of my own mortality and how fleeting our lives on earth can be whether you’re eighteen or eighty and what you do in the moment is of utmost importance.

Thirdly, I simply had the right genes for adventure and independence.  I always admired my sister, 5 years my senior, for her courage to survive life’s challenges and prosper.  She loves to travel, write, sing and meet life on her own terms.  She has overcome so much in her life and has taught me the true meaning of an indomitable spirit.

Finally, in 2010 I was recovering in the hospital from surgery where cancer was highly suspected but not found.  I became aware of my angels that day and would have faith in God and my many angels to show me the way and guide my decisions.   I rarely speak openly of my spiritual beliefs thinking, perhaps erroneously, that those beliefs are a private matter and who we are speaks louder than words.   I decided right there in my hospital bed that if I was going to make this trip come to fruition I needed to proceed “as if,” have faith that it was meant to be, leave the windows to my soul open, and most of all listen to and through my own heart.  It was my new mission to find and provide the nourishment for the seeds to grow.  Life would in turn sustain and nourish me.  I left the hospital with a goal, a time frame and a plethora of issues to resolve.   I called it my two-year-plan: attend to health matters involving two more surgeries and solve the logistics of exactly how I would execute my plan.

As Sherlock Holmes said, “the game is afoot!”

THE FABULOUS MISS MOLLY

Hey, it's me, Molly.  My friend, Jean, said I should contribute to this journal by giving narration to the photos, but let’s face it, that is not a big enough role.  Not to overstate my importance, but I am a key player in this adventure so let me introduce myself.  My comments appear in red type and are NOT to be confused with my personal hair color which is white.  I’m a 6 year old (42 in human years) female canine, small poodle breed mixed with some unknown gene pool which I’m sure is elegant and brave.  Have I mentioned how smart poodles are?  Because of my poodle DNA you might think I’m prissy, yappy and temperamental, especially when I have to wear a pink bow on my collar that I chew off as soon as Jean is not looking.  I’m a tomboy who loves to run, romp and play with wild abandon.  Escaping my leash for a high speed chase is the best fun but resulted in my being micro chipped, whatever that is.  I don’t mind the heat, snow, wind, rain, sand and am very adaptable when it comes to adventures.  I love people and other dogs and my friendly submissive demeanor impresses everyone.  Other dogs can rely on me to roll over for a good “howdy,” maybe the only trait true to my sex.  I love mud puddles … but I digress, later on that one.  I have a few quirks but who’s perfect?  I hear humans laughing about a few of my identity issues, lifting my leg to pee, humping an occasional pillow, and suckling/kneading a nice piece of soft fleece.  I would have had more self image issues but Jean doesn’t believe in the traditional pom-pom hair cut for poodles – yuk!  I am confident, fearless and loyal, and happy to be a companion and friend to Jean and she feels the same way about me, partners.  It’s just that simple.   By the way did I mention I LOVE TREATS. 

A TEAM EFFORT

I believe that angels are God’s emissaries who appear when needed to help and guide us through not only the challenges but rejoice in the good times.  My job was to recognize the angels, trust, stay happy, stay alert and see the positive.  Angels can take many forms:  human, a truck driver in a closed, rainy rest area where I’m stranded; animal, a sweet and loving companion named Molly; or nature, a breeze in 103 degree weather or rain to temper a fire.  I felt them every day, all day.  Travelling alone in unfamiliar territory, I was perhaps more receptive to and acutely aware of my angels.  It gave me comfort to reach out my hand and feel Molly’s heart beating and take solace in knowing I was never alone.  This little ball of white fur with big round black eyes loves unconditionally, is ready for any adventure and knows I will always take care of her.  The multitude of new and welcoming friends and strangers kept me safe and content.  But, most of all, my friends and family traveled with me in spirit.  I always knew I was loved and they were urging me onward, praying for safe travels.

Many people asked how I came to take such a trip.  What I was about to embark upon seemed so out-of-the-box for a woman of my age, 68 years young.  Most folks were skeptical or simply thought I had lost my mind.  All of the questions were legitimate and were questions I had to ask myself and answer.  They had many concerns because they cared about my well being.  I love every one of them because they care so much.  Knowing me well, they did not question my making the trip, but worried about the unexpected, especially safety and health issues.  I even listened to the naysayers because they, too, offered tidbits of knowledge to be considered.  So, right or wrong, I made my decision and began preparations for travel.  My standard response became “I may not make it past the Pennsylvania border, but at least I tried – it’s all part of the adventure.  No regrets.  I would be sad to end my adventure early, but would be extremely happy and proud knowing I made an attempt and had a wonderful two years planning every detail.”

“Overcome fear, behold wonder.”  ~ Richard Bach

I picked up my trailer from Bonner Sports & RV, on May 5, 2012.  That left me with 2-1/2 months to take several shake-down trips to familiarize myself with the trailer.  I chose Bonner’s not based on price but because of their supporting and encouraging staff.  I liked the woman, Wendy, who sold me the trailer, but the men were equally caring.  They got to know me personally, answered my questions whether at home or on the road and published some of my journal entries on their website.  It gave me peace of mind knowing they were there for me if I got into trouble – trailer trouble, of course.  Wendy, Kelly, Bob, Jay and Dave were all my second set of angels - kudos and love to you all.  

We’d like you to meet Jean Hoffman.  We love Jean and we think she has an inspirational story to tell.  She is 68 years old & in one week she will embark on a SOLO journey across the US pulling her new Koala travel trailer named Baby K.  We’ll be keeping tabs on Jean throughout her journey, so be sure to check our page often.  Stay tuned…..

Several months ago a customer came into our store to look at purchasing a travel trailer, her name is Jean Hoffman and she is single and 68 years old.  Jean lives in State College, PA, she’s pretty spunky and immediately mentioned that she preferred dealing with women—lucky for us we have several on staff here at Bonner Sports.

Jean has lived in Central PA for the last 35 years but is originally from the Bay Area [south of San Francisco, CA].  As a part of her bucket list, she had a desire to visit several places throughout the US as well as attend her 50^th high school class reunion.  She is also spending one month in Spokane, Washington with her sister.  She is planning this trip across the US, solo, (except for her dog Molly, who will also be her co-pilot).

At 68 years old, I can’t imagine towing a travel trailer to the West Coast from Pennsylvania alone.  One of Jean’s motto is “It’s not going to happen unless you make it happen.  You just have to stay positive and not worry about the bad that can happen.”

Jean is towing her Koala with a GMC Acadia and plans to use GPS to navigate.  Jean named her RV Baby K and has mapped out campgrounds and RV parks all along the way.  Jean is planning an interactive game with her four grandchildren called “Where in the World is Gramma Jean?”  The kids can log onto the internet each day and map her progress.  Jean has also dedicated a Facebook group to her journey in order to share her thoughts with friends and fans.

Jean’s trip is scheduled to begin next week.  Please “like” our Bonner Sports & RV page in order to follow Jean’s progress and support a truly inspiring woman.     

           

                   

                                                  

Jay at Bonner RV is giving the scoop on the poop pipe – tickled my funny bone.  That reminds me, I smell a treat out here somewhere…

My first set of angels was Tammy and Will, my children.  Without their love, support and positivity throughout, I would have been greatly stressed and saddened.  They allowed me to be me and did not let their reservations about my travelling alone get in the way.  With today’s social media I had the perfect way to keep in touch.  My list of angels goes on infinitely but I’m sure you get the idea.  I had trust in my angels, Molly at my side, a supportive family and never felt safer or happier.

DO I REALLY KNOW WHAT I'M DOING?

My first shake-down trip with family taught me vital lessons.  Memorial Day weekend brought torrential rains that never let up.  After setting up the trailer and running through my check list, all was in order in spite of the rain.   Unhook the car, check.  Attach hoses, check.  Attach electric and cable cords, check.  Roll out awning, check.  Feeling good and a bit smug about my performance, I casually leaned on the trailer to admire my work and the trailer sailed backwards off its levelers and hitch block, right into an accumulating pool of mud.  Oh dear, I must remember to chock the wheels first thing.  Steve, my son-in-law, camping next to me came running (I had forbidden him to help, exerting my independence) and calmly asked if I was okay.  I saw that twinkle in his eye where suppressed laughter lived.  I said, “Yes, but look at my hitch – its dirty!”  With that he walked off shaking his head at my priorities.  I guess I won’t tell him about my pink leopard skin duct tape in the tool box, I just re-hitched and started over.  Good practice, right?

I rolled out the awning to keep things dry but high winds followed the rain.  Steve was having a bit of his own troubles saving his humongous awning, so five guys (no, not the pizza guys) from across the way rushed to my aid during the worst of the rain and wind to help retract my awning.  What should have been a piece of cake (pressing a button) turned into a full scale drama struggling with decorator lights and hooks that were extremely difficult to remove.   Lesson learned?  No lights on the awning for my trip.

Final solo shake down was mid June.  The weather was spectacular and all went well.  I backed up to the hitch with no problems.  When I checked in at the camp office, I happened to mention to the owner that this was my first time camping solo and would he help direct me into my space.  He paled a bit and offered to do it for me taking my keys before I really answered.  No problem there for me.  I learned that it is an insurance issue for owners/employees to do more than “guide” you into a site however most folks were eager to turn a blind eye to the rules in lieu of having their electrical poles knocked down or some other such disaster.  Although I never counted on this kind of help, it was always there, I never said no, and returned home from my long trip not having backed up my trailer!

The most amazing event of my first solo shake-down trip was quite unexpected.  Next to me were Elaine and Chuck McIntosh from a nearby town between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, PA.  We were doing the “the getting to know you” chit chat and discovered Elaine was raised in the same town as me some 3000 miles away in California, just a few blocks apart.  Two years apart in age, we went to the same schools, had the same teachers but never met.  Now, 50 years later we meet in the middle of Pennsylvania.  Campfire memories were burnt into our hearts that evening.  They were also taking a trip similar to mine (not quite as far or as long) and at about the same time with their three Papillion dogs.  I promised to try and find some of her friends at the reunion in October and would definitely keep in touch.  Maybe we could camp together in 2013.  

Elaine and Chuck have three dogs that were a blast to play with.  They had a penned in area and everything.  Do I get a picture of that?  No, but Jean and Elaine look happy.

                                              

BON VOYAGE

“Dreams are the touchstones of our characters.” ~ Henry David Thoreau

Almost time to leave.  Family and friends (I call them the usual suspects) gave Molly and me a beautiful party with lots of gag gifts and much laughter.  We talked and laughed well into the night on Will and Deanne’s back porch with gentle warm breezes and twinkling lights.  I was euphorically aware of how much I love them all and thankful for all the years we have been together. 

I live in a townhouse and got special permission to bring the trailer on grounds the night before we left to pack and get an early start.  An impromptu cocktail hour sprang up with lawn chairs being drug over and lasted an hour or two, okay, it was five or six!  Neighbors Cindy and Naomi had to help me finish packing the trailer later that night and let’s just say I was really relaxed and lacked a bit of focus.  The cocktails alleviated last minute jitters and I did not seem to have a bit of trouble sleeping. 

  

                             

July 14^th:   Car and trailer are double checked for - whatever, I just had to double check because it was a cool thing to do in front of my neighbors.  Molly and I had a last minute briefing in the car.  If we get lost, it is Molly’s mistake not mine.   “Oh yeah, pass the buck.  You better remember, one “arf” for left, two “arfs” for right and three “arfs” for I have to pee NOW!  Water bowl is full, harness is on, snacks are nearby… start your engine!”

Oh my goodness, we are really doing this thing.  

Jean looks confident enough but I think I’m a tad bit nervous.