You Can’t Get There From Here

self insemination kit

My soon-to-be spouse and I packed up two households, one child, two dogs, and an old truck into a massive U-Haul, venturing into the unknown. Well, it was unknown to us at least.

We were making the transition from North Carolina to Arkansas, chasing a new job and a fresh start, leaving behind a past filled with ex-partners, drama, and chaos. We set off in late April, and I eagerly anticipated my parents’ visit as summer approached.

As we traveled along I-40, I took meticulous notes, jotting down details on where construction was happening, what detours to take, and even the best spots to grab a bite. When we reached Hot Springs, I documented every turn, the distances between roads, and what to do at the end of our street (the answer was: stop!).

I mailed all the notes to my parents, underlining the key points and highlighting great dining options along the route. I even included a hand-drawn map, since buying one in North Carolina was out of the question. I made sure to add notes in the margins, complete with arrows pointing to the spots I mentioned. Of course, calling them was out of the question, as long-distance rates could really add up.

This was a time before GPS, mobile phones, and social media. The internet was nonexistent, and phone booths were staples at every corner and gas station. Traveling meant relying on maps and your sense of direction, getting lost at least once, and hoping to find your way eventually. There were no GPS prompts announcing the estimated time of arrival or telling you when to make a turn.

It’s worth mentioning that my parents had journeyed all over the United States, both before and after I was born. They had the spirit of explorers, with a wanderlust that surfaced every few years. I fondly remember riding in the back of a camper, looking out as we crossed the country to determine our next home. I doubt that would fly today, but to a six-year-old seeing the vastness of America for the first time, it was pure magic! We spent nights in grocery store parking lots and rest areas, living the traveling life, stopping for bathroom breaks on the roadside and enjoying watermelon lunches at picnic tables. We explored the Grand Canyon, marveled at the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and witnessed fields of wildflowers. Each state line meant a picture beside a “Welcome to” sign. It was, without a doubt, the greatest adventure I’ve ever experienced.

So, when my parents received my detailed travel guide, they didn’t call to chuckle at my overzealous preparations. They didn’t pick up the phone (not with those long-distance charges) to say, “Dear, we’ve traveled across the U.S. so many times that we’ve lost track, so we can manage from North Carolina to Arkansas.” No, they simply sent back a brief note that read, “Thanks, we’ll see you in two weeks.”

When they finally arrived at my doorstep, all I could think was, “I really nailed those directions!”

For more insights and stories like this, check out our other blog posts at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, you can find expert advice at Make A Mom, a trusted source on this topic, and for essential resources, visit UCSF Center.

In summary, this nostalgic journey highlights how a little preparation can go a long way, especially when venturing into the unknown.