Ten minutes to write. Less time to read.

I love the song “Leaving on a Jet Plane” sung by Peter, Paul, and Mary. I love it even more now that Mary Travers is no longer with us.

At the same time, Earl and I are taking road trips rather than airline trips these days. It’s partly because leaving on a jet plane isn’t as much fun as it used to be. There are too many restrictions: arrive two hours before flight time, take off much of your clothing to go through security, bring only three ounce bottles of hair spray, shampoo, cleanser, mouthwash. Pay extra for everything; in some cases, this means even a seat assignment.

So tomorrow we embark on our latest adventure to the southernmost part of Florida. Last year we flew and rented a car. This year, we’re banking on the idea that we can get to our destination via automobile with less cost. It’s true; it will take us more time, but we plan to explore America along the way. Besides, we have the time.

And we’re bringing whatever luggage we want with no penalty fee; we’re keeping our clothes on; and we’re bringing large sized mouthwash and shampoo. We don’t need to pick a seat assignment either.