Planning Ahead

We were super excited planning our trip to San Antonio, Texas.  Allen thought it best to stay and mind the home front and business, so my sister Chris was my co-pilot! Allen helped me to pack the car the evening before with all the things we anticipated I would need for me and as well for a 10-week-old puppy!  Joey Joe had more luggage than me, food, water dish, toys, crate, puppy pads, blanket and temporary fencing for hotel stays for our two nights on the road returning home.

Leaving home on Wednesday, March 24th heading out on Hwy. 10 (a straight shot there and back) picking up my sister, Chris on the way. The journey had begun. Of course, two sisters had a lot to talk about and catch up on.  It had been over a year since we had last seen each other in person and now we could hug---both of us had our COVID shots.

We arrived in Phoenix, Arizona around 3:00 p.m.  Kind of weary, but still excited.  This first leg of the journey was 361.0 miles; only 974 more to go. Once we had unpacked some of our belongings Chris and I headed out to find an early dinner.  Thank goodness for rolling carts and elevators! We enjoyed the evening and got to bed early so we could have some breakfast before we hit the road again.

Do you need help planning your Life’s journey?  More information below.

A Pleasant Surprise Along The Way

Thursday, March 25th was a long stretch, 541 miles to a little town called Van Horn, Texas which is almost an 8-hour drive from Phoenix.

Who knew such a small town of only 2600 people would become famous due to Jeff Bezos purchase of over 200 thousand acres, building a space launching pad and the launch of Blue Origin!  This made me think about how something so small can grow due to careful planning and guidance along the way.  Knowing years ahead where you would like to be sets a goal to strive towards that can be successful; just as Bezos's venture was. 

All went well as we stopped along the way to take breaks and get gas. We really enjoyed stopping at another little town that we almost missed as it looked so desolate.  Who knew, it was the home of Rambo, the actor in Bowie, Arizona.  There was only one store off the road, but it turned out to be a delight!  We took pictures of the totem pole, their “restaurant” called the Rafter G Express and we had the best grilled chicken sandwich!  Of course, we picked up some beef jerky (so many flavors to choose from), homemade jams, unique candies, and other fun stuff (like the car was not full enough before the puppy).  We arrived in Van Horn later than we wanted but grabbed a quick bite and hit the sack.

When I saw this totem pole. it caused me to pause and think about the journey of life that we are all on and the many directions we can go.  Some events or major happenings are shorter, some are midway and some are long-term (just like the totem pole miles).  

Finding Joey Joe

Carolyn, the Breeder, opened the door with a puppy in her arms and that was our Joey Joe (love at first sight!)  Carolyn provided us with a 3-ring notebook with information about Joey’s mom and dad, his first immunizations and other information.  She also provided us with more puppy pads (thank goodness as I realized later, he really understood what to do with them!) She gave us puppy food, a brush for his coat and a big hug! So far, I have texted her some photos of Joey Joe and we have communicated about him since he arrived at his new home with us. 

Home At Last!

Our trip home was safe and went well.  Joey Joe took breaks when we did, he slept most of the time and did well in the hotel rooms.  A little food, water, puppy pads, play and love work well.

Here is a photo of him to see how much he has grown!  He is afraid of going down our stairs but knows how to go up them.  Joey Joe wants to play hard, get attention and lots of love and is learning a lot.  We take him next week for his last puppy shots and then two weeks after can begin to walk him.  

Our journey was well planned, no big surprises or detours.  See what we can do to help you plan for your future travels no matter where life leads.

Protecting Our Loved Ones

We think of Toby Joe often and he will always have a special place in our hearts.  Joey Joe has a quite different personality; much more vocal!  We are having fun playing with him, watching him grow and explore.  He learned how the doggy door works within a week, is well on his way to being house broken, he knows how to sit and the command down.  He certainly knows what “no” means and he responds with a bark or what we call “puppy cussing!”  And, of course, he loves treats.

Just as we plan a vacation (or a trip such as this one) we need to think of the what if’s – be prepared and protect our family, including our pets.   

We promise to share photos as we travel and bring him home with us as well as his life's journey with us! 

We invite you to share your stories and pictures with us down below or on Facebook at New Castle Financial- Orange