Sharon, you are brave to be doing some distance driving alone but that is the only way you will do it now. Since Ray had the major strokes in 1999 I have been the sole driver and although it was daunting at first I have managed to go a lot of places I never dreamed I would. Like you I am a bit directionally challenged so we sometimes overshoot the turn off and go round the block a few times, but I say to Ray if you want to go somewhere in life you have to do it my way.

I have a womens weekend for stroke caregivers coming up in November I still hope to get to. It will be okay if Ray is strong enough to go into respite, if not I will try to arrange in-home respite and just hope that plan works.

It is all about determination.

Sue.

Sharon,

Sounds great! Where is it? I'm the queen of avoiding these monster roads and can navigate both these states and the island with nice relaxing country roads. Another alternative is the LIRR will take you into Penn and from there you can catch the train to Pennsylvania or NJ transit buses leave from Port Authority on 42nd and 8th. They have a pretty extensive service line. Depending on where you are going they may have service. Either way no driving, no traffic, relax, read a book. I know dear from way out there Pennsylvania is another country - remember I've seen it from where you're standing and know it's like do I need a passport??? LOL It's really not that far and will be well worth it.

Maria