Going Home

13 Days Remain

I'm planning an escape for my 40th birthday.  A small group of us are headed to South Dakota for peace, exploration, adventure, and hopefully some surprises. It's probably one of the most sacred places I've experienced.  Beauty and mystery.  Yes, South Dakota!

My job this week is to identify a place to stay the first night of the trip; my day of birth. We know we want to travel through both South Dakota and Nebraska but we're not sure which route we take out and which to take back. My instinct is to revisit my birth state (NE) first.  Perhaps I'm hoping for some intense spiritual experience when I return there.

I spent my earliest days in a little town called Rosalie.  It is part of the Omaha Indian Reservation, yet I never fully understood or honored the diversity of growing up in such a unique place.  As an adult, I am drawn to the Native American culture and traditions.   I frequently wonder if I missed something important when I lived there. I feel like the landscape is in my DNA; subtle yet full of mystery.  This little town will likely have a few visitors on October 10th.

This won't be an over night stop for 2 reasons.  1.  Rosalie is a town of about 100 people so no motels, hotels, or camping.  2.  I would likely run into my cousins, Angie and Kellie, and drink too much at the former Silver Fox Bar.  Sorry, I need to get to South Dakota, ladies!

So, first stop, might be Niobrara Nebraska.  A small town on the Niobrara and Missouri Rivers with a handful of cheap motels and a casino.  I haven't been there but I understand it's beautiful landscape.  Is this how I want to spend my Birthday though?  I'm not convinced.

Maybe, Valentine Nebraska! Delicious landscape, waterfalls, parks, and a name that screams, "Love". Let's face it, the holiday itself has become a guilt trip to buy the best junk you can for some one you kinda like or want to get to know better.  I've always been disappointed with that holiday.  I think it all started in high school when my mom would send balloons while my friends all got stuff from their boyfriends.  (Love you mom)  Then, my oldest son was born on Valentine's Day so we don't speak of the holiday in his presence. I've always wanted a Valentine's Day. So, maybe a day in Valentine will suffice.  Why not on my 40th Birthday?

So tonight I will plan for all things wonderful on this 6 day trip.  Most of all, I hope to see old landscapes with new eyes.


Act of Kindness: I gave a very negative person a chance to talk.  I thought I was going to tear up at one point, because it was such a downer.  I just felt that he needed someone to listen. I did and I only responded positively.  He doesn't read this...... It's amazing how draining this can be. Friends, surround yourself with positive people.