Turtle Traveling: BMOPHS

I’ve been on the road a great deal lately and it looks that that trend will continue for the remainder of the year. I’ve always enjoyed traveling, being in different locations, experiencing new energies, situations and people. People and places are so fascinating to me. I feel that my ideal career involves travel, of some sort. I am happiest when I am on the go. I appreciate having a space to come home to, but more and more, I'm finding I'm just as happy to BE, wherever I land. Perhaps that comes with feeling secure in my skin? Or maybe from recognizing that I really don't need many material objects to make me happy? It could be a combination of the realization of how I've limited myself by saying, "Oh, I can't do that right now, maybe someday." Well, my "someday" is approaching and I'm in full allowance of however that decides to show up. I'll be ready because I've been practicing. 

I’ve long been one to take the contents of “home” wherever I may roam. If I am not flying, a pillow and blanket are tucked in the car, right along with a few clothing changes. Packing for me happens in less than five minutes. I’m very clear and concise when it comes to clothing; everything I own is comfortable and interchangeable. I have a carpet bag and packing cubes at the ready. I throw in a few essentials like toothbrush, facial cleanser and mascara and I’m as good as gone.

My art bag, when not in use in the studio, is by the stairway, also ready for grab-n-go, even if it’s just across the street to the gazebo. My kindle and computer often join me, depending on the “assignment” of the journey. I had previously traveled very “light” focusing on not bring unnecessary extras. However, that wasn’t so comfy. I don’t need much mind you, but there’s something quite homey and soothing when I have my own utensils, cup and tea. Silly? Perhaps. A waste of time? Never! I’ve created and incorporated my own tea ritual. It doesn’t matter where I am or who I’m with; that former Dr. Pepper craving around 2ish has since been replaced by hot tea (and yes, this happens throughout the seasons, no matter if it is 90 or 10 degrees outdoors.) My current favorites are Jasmine Green Tea from Mountain Rose Herbs and Teavana's Matvana, Blueberry Bliss and Kona Pop, depending on my mood (and the mood I wish to create!) I’ve found that it doesn’t take that much to tuck in my tea mug, strainer and loose tea. Water is readily available. I prefer stovetop heating methods, though I’ve been known to pop a mason jar of water on a car hood to heat it up. When I travel, sometimes my tea ritual includes popping a green tea bag into my water bottle. I'm flexible like that. 

For lunch and supper on the go, I bring a latte mug, which also converts to a soup bowl. I pop a set of bamboo utensils and a reusable cloth into my purse and I have the makings of instant service for one. I either bring along some pre-made, portable snacks, the previous nights leftovers, or explore local groceries for easy, fast fixings for spontaneous, roadside picnics. I’ve found that I enjoy eating in new places, especially ones that don’t have long waits and standing room only options. The picture above was from a recent adventure, this was breakfast. I break all kinds of eating rules. Noodles are delicious in the morning. 

I’ve often joked about converting my Subaru into a mini-RV. All I’d need is to put the seats down, add a memory foam mattress and I’d be set. I may try that this summer. Life has become a delicious adventure for me. I kind of feel like I’d make a good turtle. While I don’t carry my home on my back, I certainly am finding ways to bring “home” with me. I am packing a few more things along than what I would need though no matter where I land, I would be as "snug as a bug in a rug" (pardon the pun, it was just really perfect here!)

While I'm still rooted pretty securely for the time being, I'm considering what it would take for me to have a portable, vagabond type lifestyle one day. I'll most likely want a little cottage to call home, a place to land and connect with my children and friends, though I am starting to wonder what that kind of life would be like? I've certainly heard the call........ and since I'm comparing myself to a turtle, there's no time limits....... I'll get there when I get there! So, I'll probably have a cup of tea and contemplate this for a bit longer. If you'd be interested in sponsoring the "Turtle Travels" please let me know. I think I make a pretty decent house guest. I BMOB, BMOP, BMOU, BMOPHS. Did you get that?!?! (I Bring My Own Blanket, Bring My Own Pillow, Bring My Own Utensils, Bring My Own Peace, Happiness and Sunshine!) 

What are the creature comforts you pack along? I'd love to hear about them in the comments below.