When we get out into the world, there are two main methods of getting from Place A (where you are) to Place B (the portion of the world that you are getting out to).
- Just get it done...
- Enjoy the ride...
Sometimes, you can blend the two... But not often.
I have done both, and absolutely prefer "enjoying the ride". But sometimes that isn't possible... We've all been there.
A while back, I worked retail management. I decided to surprise my mom in VA by showing up on Christmas. So, after working from 6:00am to 6:00pm, I made the 500+ mile trip from Atlanta. I did it in a touch over 8 hours. The only stops were when the car needed fuel. There was no joy in Mudville for the drive, despite the challenge.
I also drove up one year for a reunion and took two days for the trip. It involved two ferry rides, time relaxing on the beach and more than a couple of rolls of film. I arrived more relaxed than when I started. It defined the trip.
I woke up this morning outside of Washington, DC. It was cold, and the start was later than planned. Despite that, We had a drive through rolling farmland, and a ferry ride across the Potomac at White's Ferry. It was certainly the type of road trip that is about the ride... We justified it as "avoiding the traffic on I-95.
After that, we flew down I-81, I-77 and I-85 back to Atlanta.
Don't forget to enjoy the ride...
Maybe there isn't time to always catch the boat or browse the local shops, but that doesn't mean you should forget the options... and sneak them in even when you almost don't have time.
The kids will like it, and you will find so many more cool places and hidden gems.
And don't forget that the restuarants that are around the corner from home aren't always the best places to go when you are someplace new... Check out some local eats, too... You have to eat, right?
Unless otherwise noted, all content of this blog is the property of Lane Bailey, ©2012 Lane Bailey.
I'd love to hear from you...
Excellent advice, Lane! If you're going, then enjoy the gettin' there!
Debi
Lane - That's a wonderfully written blog post! I must admit that I am a road trip fan. I hate flying because I have a dislike of airports. It just seems easier to get in the car and go! I made a 600 mile trip to Utah's Highway 12 a couple months ago and loved it. I also sneak or pack in the experiences, even if I'm exhausted in the process. There's always time to crash and burn once I've returned home. But the memories are there forever!
Debi - A good road trip is good for the soul...
Myrl - I've not been to that side of the Colorado River... Just over by Moab.