Well... it's time!

With a bit of prep, a lot of money, even more nerves—and my dad arriving right on time at the Austin airport—we’re off!

The truck is packed with my dad, me, two cats, and a litter box. Attached to the back of the truck is my simple but perfect home on wheels! Pretty wild to be starting this new way of life when what I’ve been craving most is predictability, security, and stability. But I guess when you get to haul your whole home—and your whole little family—around with you, that’s a kind of stability in itself.

Austin has been such a dreamy chapter of my life, no matter how many times I tried to leave before the universe was ready to let me go. I honestly don’t think anyone has ever been as lucky as me when it comes to the friends I made there and the life I got to live. Austin has held some of my brightest days and some of my darkest ones, and I’m grateful for (almost) every single moment. What a place to live and love. I am so lucky. I am so lucky.

I’m also incredibly lucky to have my dad here, helping me learn the ropes of hauling. He has so much experience, and truthfully—who else would I trust more than that guy? No one. Ever. I hope there’s a chance my mom can join me on the road at some point too!

It feels pretty surreal to move out on the last day of your lease… and not really have a plan.

From here, I’m headed toward Phoenix—by way of… wherever makes sense. I’ll be staying in Phoenix for a month to visit my aunts, and after that? Who knows. Call me a rolling stone.

Originally, I wanted to spend the summer in Santa Cruz to reconnect with my roots, get grounded again—you know, the whole cliché. But at 8 miles to the gallon, California’s just not in the budget right now. So I’ll pivot, stay flexible, and see what the universe throws my way as I leave Phoenix.

This journey is sure to be a wild ride—and honestly, I’m not even sure I’ll like it. But here’s what I do know: I always have a home in Austin, and I always have a home in North Carolina with my family. So there’s nothing to worry about.

I hope we both enjoy the travels ahead.

Gotta charge my air compressor,

 Kat