Modern Stargazer Life

Our dream of owning an Airstream came true on a road trip to Michigan—but before picking her up, a spontaneous stop in Paw Paw stirred up warm memories of a dear friend and reminded me that some detours are meant to be taken.

Turning a Dream into Today

Getting an Airstream was always one of those maybe someday dreams. The plan was simple: once we retired, we’d get one and travel the country—camping in comfort, exploring at our own pace, and living the kind of slow adventure we’d only daydreamed about during long workweeks and packed family calendars.

But life had its own plans. Chris retired a little earlier than expected, and with me between roles, we suddenly had something we hadn’t had in years—time. And right in front of us? The opportunity to turn that someday dream into today.

We found our dream trailer—a 2023 Airstream 23FBT International—at a dealer in Clarkston, Michigan, and just like that, the wheels (literally and figuratively) were in motion.

Road trip with a Side of Serendipity

With excitement buzzing, we packed for the road trip and booked a hotel near the dealership so we could arrive fresh and early the next morning. On the way, Chris needed a break and I took over driving. It was getting late, our stomachs were growling, and we were searching for a place to stop.

That’s when I saw the sign:
“Paw Paw, Exit 60.”

Without warning, I took the exit.
Chris looked over, surprised. “Where are we going?”
“I have to stop,” I said.

I hadn’t thought of Paw Paw in years, but the name hit me like a wave. It reminded me of Kathy, a dear friend and coworker who passed away some time ago. She always talked about stopping in Paw Paw on her trips to visit her daughter in Toronto. Kathy was like a wise older sister at work—full of stories, life advice, and calm encouragement.

When I was a young mom, she shared what it was like to raise grown kids and find her own rhythm again. We became fast friends, swapping stories over coffee and leaning on each other through life’s changes. She meant a lot to me.

So when I saw that sign, I knew I had to stop. I didn’t know what I’d find, but I hoped I’d feel her there. And I did.

A Cozy Stop, A Warm Memory

We pulled into town not knowing what to expect—but sure enough, we found a charming little downtown and a welcoming place to eat. I imagined Kathy doing the same, chatting with locals, enjoying the journey.

For a few quiet moments, I let myself feel her memory settle around me like a warm hug. It felt satisfying to be in a place she had visited often during a joyful season of her life. I secretly hoped she was watching, smiling at the fact that I—of all people—had found myself in Paw Paw too.

Onward to Tomorrow

After dinner, we made our way to the hotel, full and happy, with tired eyes and full hearts. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt unexpectedly emotional—grateful for the memory of a dear friend, the serendipity of a roadside sign, and the quiet beauty of a detour I hadn’t planned.

Because tomorrow?
We’d meet Stargazer—and begin our next chapter.