I-29 takes you north to south through eastern South Dakota and directly past Brookings. Since we were there I had told my brother and sister that we would pick up my dad's possessions from his room at the nursing home. We stop at Lowe's to drop the trailer in the back of their parking lot, and also to purchase some packing boxes.
At the nursing facility we get to meet some of dad's caregivers. They reaffirmed that dad was a favorite of theirs as he was always so pleasant and never complained. And, the facility is brand new, so it was good to see where dad had lived the last 3 1/2 months. He was still at assisted living when we had last visited him before we left for Alaska.
We get his things packed and carried to the pickup. We go back to Lowe's, hook up the trailer, and make the 235 mile drive from Brookings to Omaha.
We arrive home around 3:30 in the afternoon. The lawn has been recently cut by the Mike Nolan Yard Service. It is only about 78º out, but it is very humid. I remembered how low the humidity was in Wasilla. I find it easy to break into a good sweat as we start transitioning the house from being unoccupied since May 9. Turn on the water. Refill the water heater. Get the Internet up and running. Check to make sure Directv is functioning. And then there is unpacking the RV and moving stuff back into the house. We decide carryout is in order for our supper.
We have a great surprise in the early evening when Gabby came to visit her grandma and grandpa (along with her mom and dad)! It is great fun to listen to this 21 month old talk! She must take after her mom and grandma! :o) Gabby and grandma have fun together using the iPad.
After they leave I watch some NFL football with the Falcons playing at the Broncos. My mind still drifts back to all that has happened since we left home back in May. The traveling, the places, the scenes, the new friends, and the experiences have given our Alaska trip such great value. I know in my heart my dad was happy that we had this opportunity.
Next week we make another journey... to put him to eternal rest.
And with that, this blog is put to rest, also.
2 comments:
Tom and Peggy,
First, Tom, you have our sincere condolences on the loss of your father. Once I started reading your blog I remembered the post about the property sitting job in Alaska and told my wife what an outstanding opportunity that would be. We have followed your well written blog since day one and have lived vicariously through your travel adventures. We feel like we know the two of you, Grant, Debbie, and of course, Joey the hanger cat. We thank you for sharing your thoughts, memories, and photos.
Best Regards,
George and Ann Marie
Thank you for your kind words, George.
The blog was originally intended to keep our two adult daughters appraised of our happenings and a means to share photos. It was indeed a fantastic opportunity for Peggy and me as we were planning to vacation in Alaska anyway. Timing to get this "gig" was everything- being in the right place at the right time to find the posting on RV.net.
Tom
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