I wanted to take a moment on this first entry and welcome you to our blog.  We are soon going to embark on a journey that we are very fortunate to have the opportunity to take and we want you to come along.  My name is Kristen, or Mom as Franklin says. Franklin is my 5 year old (almost 6) Golden Retriever.  He will write most of the stuff on here and I will fill in as necessary.

It’s amazing how much a dog can improve your life.  In moments of sadness or loneliness, those feelings subside, if only for a moment, when your pup puts his head on your knee, a reminder that everything will be ok.  I’ve needed that a lot over the last year and half and without hesitation, he has always been there.  After a long day at work or just a tough day in general, walking in the door and being greeted by a wagging booty and howl can turn any frown upside down. I’m so grateful for him and I believe that during the short time he will be with me, it is my job to spoil him rotten!

On April 4, 2016 we will begin our adventure, a decision made only a few months ago originating from my mom.   She sent a text to me one Monday morning as I sat at my desk procrastinating the monotony of my work day, “I just watched a show about a woman who quit her job without a plan B, I think you should do it.”

You see, I’ve been working for the same company the last 14 years.  In various jobs throughout that time and now as the Director of Marketing. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great job and a great company but when you reach a point in your career where it just doesn’t feel right anymore, any part of it, you know you need a change.  Deep down, I’ve known this for a long time. I equate it to the same reasons you stay in a relationship for too long when you know its over, comfort and security.  But the looming question that has always turned me away from pulling the final trigger… What next?

With that one text from my mom, I was suddenly given the confidence to just go, without knowing that next step. I sat there for an hour staring at the wall trying to come up with one reason not to… I couldn’t.

The ball began rolling on that day and now with only 12 Fridays left (makes it seems shorter), I will quit my job, move into my car and Franklin and I will begin our adventure across the country and back.

I invite you to come along!

– Kristen