Was it worth it?

Have passport, will travel!

     After I posted about the Eclipse on facebook, a friend commented, "Was it worth it?"
                                                                          Y.E.S.
     I'm writing this on January 17, 2018, and I still think it is worth it. It is worth it even though:

*  I put at least 6,000 miles on my 12 year old Malibu Maxx (now affectionately known as "Miracle Maxx"). Maxx climbed the Rockies, traversed the plains (twice), and endured the rigors of rush hour in several metropolitan belt-ways without engine trouble or a flat tire. After returning home, he needed 2 quarts of oil, replacement of a turn signal bulb, and preventive maintenance.

*  The cover of Maxx's gas-cap is misaligned, held on with duct tape. (another lesson: always have duct tape!)

Miracle Maxx back home in PA

*  I had severe back pain after the return trip of 6 days straight in the car. I learned I now have arthritis in my back. But hey, that arthritis was probably developing for a while, and I would have it if I went on the trip or not. BTW, anti- inflammatory meds and back exercises are helping now.

*  I had to work extra hours both before and after I left to meet all the deadlines due during the 3 weeks I was away. (about 50- 65 hours/ week June-July-October & November)

*  My yard went to rack and ruin. I had someone cut the grass, but the weeds just went wild for 3 weeks and I had no time to get them under control (see "work extra hours" above).

     WHY is it worth it?

*  BECAUSE seeing the Total Eclipse of the Sun is a once-in-a-lifetime, totally AWESOME experience.
*  BECAUSE spending 3 weeks with my son is probably something we will not do again. He saw America as only you can on a Great American Road Trip, and I was there with him.
*  BECAUSE I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone, daring to plan, and pray, and finally believe that this amazing trip could happen.
*  BECAUSE I now have this as proof that I can pray, plan, prepare and DO something that seems too overwhelming. The goal of seeing the Eclipse was enough to spur me on to accomplish things I didn't think I could do.
*  BECAUSE now, in the aftermath of winter storm Grayson, as I look out my window and see ice, snow, and bare branches tossed by the frigid wind, I can imagine in my mind's eye the beauty that I saw in the summer. It sustains me and gives me hope. I do not think I could drive all that way again, but I have been perusing the Amtrak website, checking fares for the Empire Builder route that will take me back to Glacier Park.

   
 And then again, there is another Total Eclipse in North America  April 8, 2024. I'll keep you posted!
     https://www.space.com/37878-solar-eclipse-2024-path-of-totality-maps.html