i have just seen my faith in humanity and the universe boosted.

since my dear old red pick-up truck finally laid down its weary head for the long sleep several weeks ago, i've been exploring the various ways of getting around without a motor vehicle - while living in the countryside, in a county with almost zero public transportation ... so i've been walking and biking and relying on the kindness of friends. well, today, i decided to give my thumb a try. i had an important appointment 30 minutes away (by car). i am happy to report that it took me a total of 45 minutes in each direction via a rapid succession of lifts (6 in total) from kind strangers! not only did i get where i needed to go, i met 8 new people and re-met one person (who i haven't seen in 10 years) who live in my community.   almost all have had their own experiences hitch-hiking and enjoy returning the favor.

so, if you're driving around columbia or dutchess counties, or maybe some other part of the world, and you see a gal with her thumb pointing that-a-way, it could be me or some other kind soul who'd love a ride and to share a few minutes of conversation with you...


film poster found here:  Even Cowgirls get the Blues