WELLNESS REVOLUTIONARIES

The first couple of hours felt surreal. It didn’t feel like I was traveling to another state—it felt like I was just heading to visit family in a nearby city. I didn’t even realize I had entered South Carolina until I was already halfway through and looking for a gas station. Before I knew it, I was crossing into Georgia and decided to stop at the information center. From now on, I plan to stop at these centers during trips because they often offer free tickets, maps, and discounts for local activities. Though I didn’t pick up anything this time since Georgia wasn’t my final destination, it was worth stepping inside. The boys stretched their legs, running around happily before we hopped back on the road.

I’ll admit, I was a little frustrated that I didn’t leave as early as planned. While I still made good time, I missed out on some daylight. In hindsight, I wish I’d saved more money before the trip. But honestly, I spent so much time debating whether or not to even take this journey that I almost talked myself out of it. Yet here I am, proud of myself for pushing through. I packed up the car, drove out of North Carolina with no known return date, and took my boys along for the adventure. Right now, I have no one to answer to but the Lord.

I’ve been eating better, opting for groceries over constant snacking. I’ll give myself some grace, though—"shark week" arrived on November 23rd, and Aunt Flo definitely runs the show when she’s in town! Even so, I’ve stayed alert, made smart choices, networked, and ensured my boys are enjoying every moment.

The boys are thriving. They love the iPad setup in the car and have watched Moana at least 19 times (their choice!). They’ve been drinking water, snacking on bananas, and adapting beautifully to all the changes since November 19th. They get daily exercise, soak up the sun, take their vitamins, and explore with endless curiosity. They’ve been chasing birds, cautiously approaching dogs, and even getting too close for comfort to fish! Everywhere we go, they make people smile and laugh. Seeing them so happy fills my heart.

The views on this journey have been breathtaking—those "you had to be there" kind of moments. These aren’t just pictures I’d save as a screensaver or scenes from a travel show; I’m here. I’m really here. Finally, I am living the dream I once only imagined. And all it took was the courage to drive.

My mission on this adventure is clear: connect with other single parents, have vulnerable and meaningful conversations, show my boys the world, car camp, make money, catch awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets, and rediscover who I am. Most importantly, I want to show my sons how brilliant and resilient their mom truly is.

Alongside this journey, I’ve been working on something close to my heart: creating an app for students focused on holistic self-care and wellness. Follow us on Instagram @westraightapp to stay updated as we make progress.

What version of yourself do you want your children to see?

Add and follow me to let me know your answer:

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• Email: Kaykeel@lovememoimi.com