I’m thinking about this question a lot as Scout and I prepare for this trip: Why should I write a blog now?
Yes, plenty of friends and family have asked me to keep in touch/blog/vlog, etc. But what makes this adventure demand to be documented compared to others that I’ve taken? My previous trips created memorable travels: remote places with no convenient transportation, no access to a store for snacks or toiletries, let alone a medical facility, and months without wifi or cell service. Relative to these experiences, it seems frivolous to write a blog now, but in processing, I have come to acknowledge that we’re under remarkably different circumstances than previous times.
The primary difference is the COVID-19 pandemic with August marking the 6th month of social distancing, quarantine, and too many infections and deaths. Along with coronavirus upending much of our daily life, we are also protesting violent racism, police brutality, and inequitable systems. I spent a lot of time thinking if this trip was responsible and the basic privileges (my race, socio-economic standing, reliable income, health insurance, etc.) that I have to even consider this.
These thoughts were immediately followed by: How will I practice ethical traveling? How can I do this safely as a solo female traveler?
Other logistical thoughts included: What happens if my transmission blows in the middle of North Dakota? Will Scout be able to handle the days spent in the car?
This is probably the most preparation I’ve ever done for a trip, even with the planning that went into visiting Peru or Morocco (and those were leading high school students!). It’s been a valuable experience as I have considered endless situations, and knowing that plenty I didn’t think of will arise over the next several months. For now, I have definitely packed more disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer than I ever expected!
Thus, through this forum, I’m hoping to answer many of the questions above, and to keep friends & family close! This blog will undoubtedly evolve as I navigate a new routine, my own thinking and writing, and all that I learn day to day, week to week. At the very least, these words will be the proof to my children and grandchildren that I built my own narrative and created experiences that fulfilled this time in my life.
Sabbatical with Scout 