That sounds like a really good plan. Do me a favor, and let us know how that book is. I have a S17 and S13, and I might pick it up myself.
I do think there is something about menopausal -- and esp. pre-menopausal -- women, and wanderlust/waywardness/walkawayness. Because "mid- to late-forties" seems to be WAY above the norm around here.
