31 Comments
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Wendy Varley's avatar

Enjoy your travels, Stefanie.

Good to know you’re cancer free after leukaemia. A younger relative has just been diagnosed and it’s scary times, but thank goodness there are treatments that give hope.

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

Thank you Wendy. I am so very sorry to hear about your younger relative. I am here to answer any questions or offer support. If you feel comfortable with me asking, how old are they?

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Wendy Varley's avatar

So kind, Stefanie. A son-in-law, early 40s. He’s in very good hands, getting lots of support and advice and prompt treatment, but of course a massive shock.

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Marianne Werdel's avatar

Thank you, for the amazing article! Funny timing as I am in the Amsterdam airport traveling home, alone. My husband and I are going in different directions with both our fathers turning 90 this week. I have traveled alone on and off all my life and find a soothing peace to it. Have a good book and headphones and I am set. Your article hit home for me being over 50, kids out of the house, past career finished, and now what…. Going in circles endlessly searching for the next thing to do and make a difference. The chaos in my head was unsettling to say the least. I opted to slow down and enjoy each day. I sent your article to a few friends as well. Thank you for the reminder to treasure each day!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

Thank you for sharing all of that Marianne. I agree, solo travel is a soothing peace. I am currently in a hotel room with my dog enjoying the silence and the ability to read, savor and respond to comments without feeling rushed or being interrupted. I love that you decided to simply slow down and enjoy each day. If there's something you are meant to do, it will find you.

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Mother Hood's avatar

Am I right in recognizing the cover photo as El Capitan in the Guadalupe mountains?

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

This photo was actually taken just outside of St. George Utah. Isn't it gorgeous?

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Mother Hood's avatar

It really is, and looks just like west Texas!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

I agree! I’m here now in Marfa. Very similar feel.

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Mother Hood's avatar

Ohh I know where that is! Not too far from my home town!

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Melanie Ham's avatar

Love hearing of your adventures!! It took a cancer diagnosis for us to change our perspective. I hope others can see the joy without going through rough times!!

Are the sweatpants true to size? Or if you like baggy get heft size?

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

I am hoping to be able to share that exact message my friend.

Which sweatpants? The ALO? or the expensive AF ones?

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Melanie Ham's avatar

Both?? Probably won’t get the exspensive AF ones but you never know!🤣

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Judy A. Bernstein's avatar

"The things I used to rush by and take for granted are now the very things that bring me daily joy." That said, I am super envious of your solo trips! Especially with Otis.

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

He really is the perfect travel companion. My favorite thing about him is that he doesn’t like to talk a lot in the car. ;) Have you been to Marfa?

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Leslie Senevey's avatar

I feel like I live with my head on swivel looking for the bits of beauty and joy in everyday life. No surprise we connect in this way. I'm so happy you are here on this planet and so happy you are headed to my neck of the woods. Can't wait to see you in person!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

Thank you for the kind words my friend. So looking forward to meeting you in person next week.

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Henny Hiemenz's avatar

Enjoy the trip, looking forward to reading about it!!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

Thank you!

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Raili's avatar

Loved this Stef!!! Let’s burn some windshield time together!!!!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

I'm in! When you joining me?

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Nancy Hesting's avatar

Good news on being cancer free. My cousin died of acute leukemia back in the 70s long before the medical community made huge advances in its treatment. I haven't done much solo travel; I commend you for getting out there.

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

I'm so very sorry to hear about your cousin Nancy. ❤️

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Carrie Steele's avatar

Safe travels my friend and enjoy this fun journey! Always proud of you and love seeing you enjoy this beautiful life after the big bumps in the road.

The only reason I don’t like a solo roadtrip is driving makes me sleepy…..if I can fix that I’m all in!

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

I'll drive you sleep. :)

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Tricia Mohamed's avatar

If you travel through Indianapolis headed to the east coast, we own an Airbnb. We are trying to rent it out full time but right now it’s open. You are welcome to stay in it if it remains open. I love that you enjoy a good sunrise and hot coffee. Same sister! Safe travels xoxo

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Stefanie Mullen's avatar

Thank you! At the very least I would love to see you! I will definitely be making my way through Indy.

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Abbey Algiers's avatar

Amazing newsletter. Thank you for sharing your story & all of your discoveries along the way.

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June Walker's avatar

You’re amazing Stefanie, I love reading your posts! I am with you regarding solo travel, I love it but I just can’t do road trips solo. I don’t like being in car for longer than a few hours.

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Nicole Holliday's avatar

I love everything about this. It is a bit cliche but there are no guarantees in life. However, you remind me to control what I can...find and savor the beauty that is all around - GRATITUDE! Thank you! XOXO Safe travels!!

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Jen Bellenger's avatar

This is so beautifully said and I wholeheartedly agree - happiness and value can be found everywhere when you change what you're looking at and looking for. I love getting to know you better through your writing. And I'm very grateful for the newsletter mention, thank you so much :)

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