There’s nothing like travel to shake you up and off your foundation, whatever that may be. In a good way. And what fun to immerse yourself in new far-out landscapes, visit incredible places you have read about, admired in photographs, and/or you long ago added to your bucket list. This August, one such trip for me was the CA coast. Santa Cruz. Half Moon Bay. Big Sur. Henry Miller Library. Nepenthe Restaurant. Monterey Bay Aquarium. And the Redwoods.
One must pay respect to their elders. These magnificent trees are 500-1000 years old. The lowest branches in the grove we visited were 175' up from the ground.
Locals refer to the month as Fogust, with ocean fog blanketing the coastline on many days. But here’s something cool I learned... the seaside fog provides 30% to 40% of the water that nurtures the Redwoods each year. They can gather up to 4” (equal to that of rain) in one night from dripping and the resulting wet ground, while also absorbing moisture through their needles. Amazing!
Back to the road trip. When one travels and removes oneself from an accustomed lifestyle and daily to-do list, it provides an opportunity to consider one's life from a distance... as well as the new, less structured life you're inhabiting. Questions may surface. Just who are you anyway? And what are you doing with your days? And why?
It can be freeing. And discombobulating. You choose. Maybe both?
But it does open one to unscheduled time, a wonderful gift if used wisely. It might unlock a renewed sense of direction, leading to fresh ways of thinking. Unexpected creative inspiration.
All while wandering unfamiliar pathways.
Happy Trails 'til we meet again.
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