My Great Escape~Part I

On By K.L. HaleIn Essay, Holiday

I climbed the wall.

It was a great escape. No one had me locked in. There were no mean guards or dangerous people. It was a prison I built around myself. A prison of fear. A lockdown for love. A jail of jitters. Have you ever constructed your own cage? Maybe it’s a career you can’t change, others’ expectations, a health hazard, a lack of resources, insecurities, or perhaps, unhappiness? To be fair, I must be wise. Should I be climbing any wall,… alone,… with tons of tumors?

Seven years ago, I was told I had a “fairly common” mutation. Two years later, my body ached even more. Pain, questions, doubts, and confusion didn’t stop me from the 4,000 miles I traveled, round trip, twice. The miles would end with what matters most. I needed to SEE and hug my sons and families-to SEE the beautiful country with a different view and perspective. Today, I still ache. 4,000 miles is no longer doable alone. 40 miles? It’s doable. All the things that COULD go wrong were noted. Everything that COULD GO RIGHT became my motivation. The plans? Plan A-rent the R.V. and a campsite. Plan B-scrap the whole plan if I felt worse. “My blood count won’t dip worse for two more weeks”, I thought to myself. I’ll be careful with my back and call for help if I need it. Humidity was down. Schools were still in session; holidays a week away.

It was time.

“God, you are the creator of the universe. You’re in charge of me. I shift my focus from the problem to your peace and presence.”

She’s back to loving car rides! “Let’s go, Finn!”

Friends, how are you? For the last 5 days, I enjoyed time in the Great Outdoors. It was there I enjoyed peace, tranquility, and God’s beautiful creation. Thank you for joining me this week for my “Compact Camping Series” 🤗

As I reflect on holidays and anniversaries I’m acutely aware of the tragedies we remember each year. My heart goes out to the 21 lives lost at Robb Elementary in Uvalde. I can’t fathom losing my child, grandchild, or loved one in such a way. It’s overwhelming to think of the mass shootings that continue and the number of lives tragically cut short daily. My prayers revolve around healing and love in divisiveness. The mass shootings, hate, and divisiveness are devastating. My little life is blessed. I know it. Like I’ve said time and time again, I’m not a tragedy. Let’s not forget the tragedies. Let’s also remember the good things in life that we might take for granted each day. As for me, I choose to dwell on that which helps me focus on spreading a message of hope, love, and friendship. What can we do, this Memorial Day weekend and each day thereafter, that can bring hope to another human? Can we spread a little joy? Can we offer kindness? Do you have hope? ❤️

You are loved. No matter what. 💚 “Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong. They are weak, but he is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so.” 🎶 HE LOVES YOU, TOO!

Have faith 💚

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84 thoughts on “My Great Escape~Part I”

    1. Thank you, Kelley.💚 I thought of you, my friend. God was with me. ❤️The encouraging words you sent were with me. It was a beautiful and peaceful time. Sending you love this Monday. I’ll go look for you Simply Sunday, my friend. 💚

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  2. nanasinsideout

    So thrilled that plan A worked out and you have been in your happy place! God is so so good! Can’t wait for your chronicles on your great escape💕🥰🦋

    Sent from my iPhone

    >

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  3. Ginger Salvatore

    Karla, a great escape indeed! A great escape to find yourself again. Good for you! Fresh air, beautiful nature, peace, Finn, what could be more healing!

    I agree that we need to remember the tragedies lest we forget our good fortune too. No matter what crisis we’re going through, others are experiencing their own crises.

    See, you’re not the only one who climbed a wall! 🤗

    You keep climbing girl! Have a wonderful week and Memorial Day celebration. Stay strong and true to yourself.

    As always, sending my love and prayers and friendship.

    Tell sweet Miss Finley that she looks mighty precious surveying the world from her chariot. Ginger

    Sent from my iPad

    >

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    1. I always love your comments, Ginger! Look at you climbing walls too! You fire up my spirits…and speaking of fires, Finn and I wreaked of smoke. Lol. I’m sure I smelled as though I burned for many days. The campfires were amazing. It gave me warmth~physically and spiritually!

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    1. Thank you, brother! I’ve been recuperating in a good way. A good sore. Blood sugar issues creep in~it’s all part of the radiation process, I believe. My blood sugar went to 48 as I was going to respond to you, and I took care of it and within the last 30 minutes, climbed to 133. It’s so wonky and part of it! I’m always thankful to God that these things are managed! I hope you are doing well, Matt! Are you about out of school? Are you feeling well? Or the best you can? 🙏🏻

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  6. This makes my heart so full Karla, it a backed up in my throat. We are similar spirits and I know mine would suffer if I couldn’t get back to nature and travel. You can try and heal your body with medicine and your heart with live but you have to also attend to the deep seated desires of the soul and that’s what you have done. I’m so glad!! Koafs of live to you my friend, stay brave and resilient ❤️❣️

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    1. Dear Kate, I know you understand and yes, you would have similar suffering. I’m so happy this made your heart full too! You nailed it~medicine might help body~the deep desires of the soul need care! Beautiful! Thank you for inspiring and empowering me! Much love! 💕🥰🏕️

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  7. Susan Gillen

    Karla, Praying your aching has lessened. I pray the get away is all that you hoped. Keep writing and posting, as possible. It is comforting to those who love you to hear how & what you’re doing. Your writing is definitely inspired and inspiring! Hugs, Blessings & love, Sue

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    1. Thank you, Sue, for years of love and support. It was everything, and more, I had hoped. It helped even “clear my soul” to read and write. I needed a familiar landscape, the scenery, and soaking it in helped me find words~and peace! It means so much you want to read and stay in touch. What you send me touches my heart. I know that we have a shared love of our Heavenly Father, families, kids, humor, and so much more. We have many years of memories and I pray for more. Hugs and love sweet Sue. You’re a blessing ❤️🙏🏻💛

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  9. atimetoshare.me

    What an amazing escape. We all need those little diversions to maintain our focus and sanity. I have lots of friends who travel and I joke that the furthest I get from home is south Minneapolis. Paul and I try to take little road trips of twenty miles or so, just to get a change of scenery. Glad you had the opportunity to do so.

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    1. Thank you, Mama K. I remember one you wrote about~was it to a lake? And I think of the beauty and surroundings in Paul’s stunning paintings. You “travel” in your words, art, and theater works. The little diversions are definitely needed! I’m so glad the two of you still have your changes of scenery. I pray daily for you both. I love you! 🙏🏻💕🏕️

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      1. atimetoshare.me

        We do continue to pursue God’s beauty in art and words, but even in doing so, it is nothing compared to His
        majesty. Our weekly drives reveal so much of that and fill our need for Him. Love you, dear Karla❤️❤️

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  10. You go girl!! So happy for you to be able to get away into nature. Soothing for the soul, for sure! And to see loved ones. ❤ ❤ Thank you for the sweet joy and encouragment that you bring to all of us who aren't climbing near as big of walls as you are! (((HUGS))) my friend! Love ya!<3

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    1. Aww, Joy. How thoughtful and kind! Thank you for bringing “joy!” I know how you love such things as me! I’m so happy you find my words an encouragement! That’s what I hope and pray! To all the walls we climb! I love you! ❤️💛💪🏻 🎶

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  11. Isn’t it amazing the wonders solitude in God’s sanctuary can do for our body, mind and spirit? I am so glad you were able to stick with plan A!! Now as you “recover” from this refreshment – I pray that the peace and joy that embraced you lingers long into the day ahead – until your next adventure!! Embracing you in prayer this afternoon as I gaze out at the mountains I have yet to venture to this spring even though they are less than 10 minutes away and my only excuse is yard work!

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    1. Erika, let’s go! My heart and head nod to your first sentence. Yes! I’m surprised I needed a recovery from rejuvenation~the energy it takes to just live sometimes throws me off! Your prayer means so much to me~…”lingers long into the day ahead-until your next adventure.” Yes! I must keep on! I’m so happy for your mountain view ~you’ll tackle when you can! I know it! Blessings and love, sweet friend! 💛 🏔️

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  13. Whoohoo! Who’s a happy camper Karla (and little miss Finn too 😀). That is great to hear you have dared ‘life’ to be in a very healing place of nature. It never ceases to amaze me in putting my bare feet on the ground or walking in a natural stream of water how it grounds us so beautifully and removes a lot of energetic toxins. And the fire might be smoky but it too is a clearer, its almost like going back into the basics of who we are, sitting and watching those flames and embers is such an empowering thing. And of course the love filled heart that is open to it all kind lady, a road dared traveled to heal and be free within. He knew a graceful heart and shared your journey. Take a bow dear lady, you have walked the walk, and found much power and love in those steps. Big hug my friend, glad to have that beauty within shared as only you can. Welcome home 😀❤️🙏

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    1. Mark,…your words astound me…”It never ceases to amaze me in putting my bare feet on the ground or walking in a natural stream of water how it grounds us so beautifully and removes a lot of energetic toxins.”…there’s truth there! Grounding is so important! I had times of it again! I was a happy little camper (and Finn) and I’m going to do it as often as I can. I loved your description of “going back to the basics of who we are” around the fire. There’s no warmth like that of a fire. I watched others cook and warm to it, just as I did. It served common purposes for us all. Fires are so mesmerizing; I can watch them for so long. I have a few people I’ll share about in different parts~it was precious, Mark! I’ll keep walking the walk and loving others and life to my best ability. I’ll let God do that which I can’t. “Welcome Home”…this brings tears. Did you know I have a little story about “Home” in this series? It truly was like going home. Our hearts and souls are connected across the great huge pond my friend! Finn and I give hugs hugs and love! 💛🙏🏻🏕️

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      1. Your descriptions has me yearning a nice fireplace Karla, haven’t had one for a while, I think it may be time for me to go bush again. A friend out in the ‘never, never’ is going through a difficult time so I think it is time for me to tempt a little travel 😀 By the way, the ‘never, never’ is a place way out in the outback where the early settlers had a very hard life and to them it seemed that the hard land never ended, where the land with no souls (you never see another soul for its vastness), goes for hours in any direction with never a footprint, a place you never want to get lost in, never can reach the horizon because of its sameness (I shouldn’t say that, there are many different areas with much change but it just seems to be all ‘bush’ as far as the eye can see 😀), it never rains or if it does you can never get out of it for the mud.
        Mind you, it also has some of the most magnificent landscapes, wildlife and beautiful people. I suppose like all of life there is always two sides to it all. I shall have a look for your ‘Home’ story. I’ve read each and every post dear lady so I don’t think I’ve missed it but I shall reread them all to find it 🤣 Big hugs and love to you and Finn, and to that ‘coming home’ for you both. Our hearts will always be as one dear lady, His love indeed connects us all. Enjoy your journey within it 😀❤️🙏

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      2. Mark, you’re such a good friend. I wish I was a better reader of YOURS. I imagine the space you describe in the never, never,…I’m sorry your friend is going through a difficult season; and way out there! You’d be the one to travel through the vastness to help! Thank you for journeying with us, Mark. On a completely different subject I want to share about how I “read” here. I use my phone “Reader”. I know, based on what I read, when friends are posting at different times. I will scroll and scroll. Ugh, that’s a similarity to social media I DON’T like. If I type in someone’s name (or even your website) it MAY or MAY NOT show up? Then, at times, it might even say I’m not following someone, when I know I am? After 3 years you’d think I’d have this figured out. My eyes will get tired or blurry after reading about 10-15 and if I’ve been on my computer, my eyes are even blurrier, my back aches, or even my arm hurts from holding my phone. Oh boy, Mark. I’m a mess! Can WE (all of us here that are friends) set a HUGE table somewhere, (because of you and Kate I say in Australia ;)~ I know MAK, Pam, Ginger, Kathy, Mark, C, M.B., Julie, Dwight, Jennie, and many friends here could pick me up, lol) and let’s gather and meet! If not this side of heaven, I can’t wait to see you all in the home that’s being prepared for us! Take care dear Mark! Finn and I love you! 💛💕💚🐾🎶🎶🎶🦓🦓🌙🌙

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      3. That is so beautifully written Karla, and we will indeed meet in a place, if not here, but a beauty beyond words. And I won’t be going that far out into the actual ‘never, never’, just a little way towards it that still has some green grass, water and many kangaroo’s to make you watch the road keenly 🤣And don’t push yourself too hard at the moment, I have no doubt of what you have been through will take some little time to give your strength back, your eyes adjustment for your phone’s reader and your body a bit more strength in its journey. And for that, much love and light, blessings of healing energy, and a wise heart to bear them all kind lady. I love you guys too, take care and enjoy that clear air out there 😀❤️🙏

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      2. I sure will! Some times are tougher, but my morning devotion hit straight to the heart~I must share! Isaiah shared that those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength…it’s been in my waiting…the process…where I’ve found strength. About every other to every two nights the pain hits harder. When I get relief I’m so happy!! I smile! But in my tears in pain, God gives me unbelievable strength! I don’t find myself stronger because of relief! I know why I have it! So yes, I’m going to keep in keeping on and enjoy every day the best I can and share God’s love!

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  15. Karla I’m thrilled you got to breathe in all the grandeur of creation on your get away! It does touch the delicate and often parched soul when we can take time to be alone with God. I hope you had clear skies so you could drink in the ancient starlight and feel the movement of the universe…. Love and hugs to you and Finley from me and Mochi!

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    1. How beautiful, Val! Thank you so much! You know well o’ wandering one! It gave me new perspective on where I am right now. In a good way! Finn and I love you and Mochi! 🐾💛💕

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  16. Karla; Glad to hear you are hitting the road again with further Finley adventures. That has to be good for your soul even if it is a bit hard on your body. I would like to second and add a hearty “AMEN!” to your message of spreading hope in whatever way we can. You continue to be a source of hope for me.

    Still praying. Still believing. Still hoping.

    Russell B.

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    1. Russell, thank you so much! You’ve helped me with hope, too! I’m still believing and hoping. And looking forward to more adventures. I’m finding strength in the Lord! I know you do! I appreciate you both for praying alongside with my family, friends, and me.

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  18. Karla, this makes me so happy that you were able to enjoy the peace and tranquility of a road trip! I loved seeing Finn right there with you. You are a trophy of God’s grace and I love you. You are always in my prayers, beautiful friend! ♥️🙏🏻🎶🥰🇺🇸☕️💛🌹

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    1. Pam, it’s so good to see you! You’ve been in my heart (and you and Butch in prayers). I thought of the winding roads in your beautiful world and it leading to the Cottage! It was so fun to have a short and close getaway. If only once every few months, it renews me! It helps shift my perspective in the current “home”. It’s all temporary! We’re only passing through so I’ll take in the beauty of all the “home” around me. I love you and can’t say enough how much I appreciate your prayers and love! 💐💐🏕️💚🥰💛❤️💕🙏🏻

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  19. What a thrill it must be to be riding along with your absolutely favorite dog.
    I know for certain they are a treasure to have in this lifetime.
    Assuming your travel days are temporarily on hold, what’s next
    for you? Love hearing about travels. Do you have more planned?
    hugs dear heart, Eddie

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    1. Good morning, Eddie. Thank you for your precious words and support. Yes! A dear friend and his wife have offered their RV for future getaways. My hiking tribe and I are planning a trip in the Fall to see the Aspens glow. And if roads take me to family and nature, I’m winning! Ultimately I know I’m passing through. We all are so I might as well go when I can. Realistically, I need to get through my LAST treatment. If blood holds steady it will be mid June. By Fall, I’ll have the treatments complete. There’s nothing left they can do. There are current studies on increasing dosing of this particular IV targeted treatment. Since it has metastasized so far, they won’t operate. So, I need to keep my soul healthy, bones from breaking, tumors from spreading,…all in a day’s work lol 🙃 without a doubt, I’ll make it count! Hugs to you dear friend!

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    1. Aw, Mama, thank you! It gave me strength! I’ve shared multiple times today that my strength is growing while waiting, and through the process, and when I have times of pain, relief is a gift. But truly, relief doesn’t strengthen me; it’s a reward! And a blessing I’ll never take for granted. Much love and hugs. 💚🙏🏻 thank you for being here!

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  21. I’m continually astounded by you Karla. The love and care you bestow on others, the joy you spread in our besieged world, and the inspiring escapes you share with us which encourages bravery, self reliance, and amazing faith. So proud of you and your adventure in the Great Outdoors. Bravo my friend. I love you, I see you, and I hold you gently in my prayers. Hugs, C

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    1. C, I feel your love and hugs like a gentle warm blanket. Your comments are so precious; thank you. I really really try! I wrote you on part II of how you inspired me when you walked in Spain (I have that saved). This earthly pilgrimage is filled with as big, or as small, adventures and/moments, as we choose. I do find joy and contentment in the mundane. BUT,…I’ve always been a dreamer and love going to new places or experiencing new things. To simply enjoy what I used to was a bigger deal than before. It took more effort, a stronger mindset,…physically, more challenging. It was worth it. And in the big picture isn’t it amazing God says we’re all worth it? No matter where we are or what we do. I know if I go again it will be because I “hear” it’s safe to do so! I better keep my ears and heart open for opportunities lest I just become more “homebound” in my healing! I love you, C! What is your next adventure??

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      1. What a beautiful and heartwarming message to receive at the start of my day. 💖 Thank you so much, Karla. It is true… the world does need more love. I am writing and dancing, yes. 🥰 I will be visiting my daughter soon. I look forward to seeing her and the beautiful Oregon flowers. I love you, too, sweet lady. 💐

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    1. Mark, thank you, dear friend. You can see it can’t you? It gave my heart such joy. Yes, my body aches a bit, but that is nothing compared to the adventures! Thank you for being here and supporting my journey!

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  26. So glad that you were able to get out for an adventure. The weather has been perfect for it recently. The husband, puppy, and I packed up the travel trailer and headed to the lake for some R&R last weekend. It was the perfect start to my summer break.

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    1. Sondra, I thought of you when I went. I was SO close to you. I’m so happy you were able to go! Yay! I know how much you enjoy it too! You deserve it! 💛
      I was alone and I’m certain family worried at first. But I needed a way to celebrate my one-year anniversary that was quiet and full of nature and reflection. I think I NEEDED to feel I COULD do it alone again. It wasn’t easy. God was with me and my cell phone, unfortunately (and wisely), was available at any time if I had to call my family (who would drop anything to help me and they supported my decision). It sounds like such a small thing-to camp. Yet, in many ways, it was the first too. Although we don’t see each other often anymore, I’m glad we have our morning studies together, and here together. We can always go together sometime if you’d like, Sondra. Will you give the boys my love? Jarrod and Jay and kids in for the weekend. Love you! 💚🙏🏻

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      1. I am horrible at replying sometimes, and I apologize for that. Life with a new puppy is much like life with a toddler. 😀 My days get away from me if I’m not intentional about sitting down and reading email in the mornings.
        I admire you for having the courage to camp by yourself. I don’t think I could do it. I know I couldn’t get the camper to the lake and set it up by myself. I do enjoy going, though.
        The boys send their love. Hope you enjoyed time with your boys! Love you!

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      2. Oh, Sondra! You never have to apologize,…ever! I understand so much! Please give the boys my love and hugs. Yes, about the camping~the family set it all up for me. I tried very hard to not overdo things. I took advantage of my “good” week ~this week~3 straight days at the cancer center~3 shots, an infusion, and one more tomorrow ~infusions every 3 weeks to build my bones. I was able to ZOOM with 37 individuals last night from across the country (and one from New Zealand). It lifted my spirits since I’ve physically felt so lousy. I guess it’s going to take a bit to build me back up for treatment, although these shots are supposed to help my white and red cells (and keep me from a transfusion). But I try and dwell on good things. Even when I hurt (I know you do too)…speaking of good~your puppy! Aww the puppy life. Yes, like life with a toddler for sure! How precious. I can’t wait to hear more. I love you, friend. I want to connect by email. Someone we both know well was at the Cancer center today getting an infusion. He wouldn’t mind me sharing with you, but I’ll email you. I’m praying daily and I’m glad we get to spend our morning devotion times together. 🙏🏻❤️

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      4. Happy Friday, Sondra! It was good to see you there this morning. Yes, a wonderful idea! I’ll head over now to email. Love you sweet friend! ❤️

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  28. Hi Karla,
    I’m so sorry I’ve been MIA and you’ve been there for me. I do think of you and then I always want to write and think I’ll come back to it.. I’ll keep it short and sweet so I can catch up. I’m glad you are getting out and in-spite of how challenging it is~! 💗

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    1. It means so much to me that you took the time to read my pieces and give such precious feedback. You’re one busy woman! You inspire me! I understand your situation and you never need apologize ~I get it!! Much love! 💪🏻❤️

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  29. Wow! Karla! I’ve been thinking of you! You are my hero. Your journey(s) remind me of what I used to tell the kids REPEATEDLY, “It’s NOT what you get, it’s what you do with it.”

    You are a living testament of what can be achieved when we don’t let our fears or doubts get in the way!🤍

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    1. Aw, Stacy,…thank you, my friend. Do you know you’re on my prayer list and thoughts? I often think of you when I’m doing challenging things. I think about what it takes to pull up my bootstraps and just do it! Thank you for being a cheerleader for me. I see you and hear you. Much love! 💛🙏🏻

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