When all this started back in August of 2020, we had two big trips on the books. First, a cruise in Tahiti. A week of sun, food, and fun as we toured the islands, learned about the culture and just spent some time relaxing.

Second, a two-week trip to Germany. The first week was a cruise down the Rhine River, visiting castles, elegant dining, and seeing where my dad fought during WWII. The second week was a visit with our exchange student who was here in the early 2000s. A chance of a lifetime to see Germany from a local perspective.

Cancer changed all that. Suzanne’s dietary needs dictate that certain types of nourishment be readily available when we arrive. Liquid meal replacements are not just sitting on grocery shelves, many are specialty products, and knowing we can find them is critical. So, after a lot of brainstorming, we finally came up with a solution for our future travel needs. Enter Shamu.

Last spring, we ordered a camper, but not just any camper. We ordered what is considered to be a Class B camper van, a Thor Tellaro model 20K. Think of an Amazon delivery van that is fully decked out with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Our plans aren’t to camp in it all the time when we travel, in fact, maybe just a quarter of the time. But, this camper gives us the ability to pack everything Suzanne needs to prepare her meals and travel most anywhere because of the size. Unfortunately, it showed up in November, just in time to winterize it and put it in the shed.

Shamu is the name Suzanne gave our camper as it’s the largest vehicle we have ever owned. We spent the winter thinking about where we might go this summer; Illinois State Fair, visit our son in Florida, or just take a weekend tour of wine country in Michigan, Shamu will be our choice of transportation.

As Suzanne continues to improve in what and how she can eat, future air travel and maybe even that trip to Germany could still be a possibility. Until then, look for Shamu to be heading down the road with two weary travelers, maybe even in your area.

Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 16:3