Traveling Definition: Spouse-Expect the Unexpected

I recently accompanied my husband to a class he decided to take at a university in Florida that required travel. My plan was to write articles for FiftyandFurthermore’s site, work on my upcoming book, see a friend I knew in the area and relax in between. My sole purpose for traveling was to be a loving spouse. Frankly, other than the fact that I wanted to be there for him at the end of the day, I would have preferred to stay home. As is often said, the best laid plan …etc. Our original hotel selected as it was near the University, had windows that didn’t open and our room was dreary and since the weather was exceptionally wonderful, I decided it was best to change hotels. I’m glad we did. I had a small balcony, a beautiful view and fresh breezes that encouraged creativity.

However, I also had my new computer. You can guess the rest. Most everything that had been updated worked. But, of course there were glitches. And for anyone who has ever logged into a hotel internet, the chances of it working without the provider’s help are iffy at best. So two days of work time lost, and one day of unexpected driving that interfered with relaxation have taught me that I will always plan for the unexpected.

What I learned:
Make sure you can still work on an old fashioned pad and that you remember how to use a pen or pencil.
Laugh when you can.
Walk or exercise to alleviate frustration.
Sight see, if that’s your thing.
And keep a good book handy.

Deadlines may sometimes need to be met. But if you can’t meet them, remember to breathe. It helps keep you alive. At the end of the day, it will also make you a more loving travel spouse.