Road Trip

One of the reasons I love to travel is because my senses come alive. It’s as if they have been dormant, piled under papers, dust, daily routines and the unfortunate monotony that can happen in life at any time. Its easy to think about Monotony as a “bad” thing…but I will refrain from judgement — it just is.
New places, streets, architecture, shops, city and town landcapes…all those things awaken the senses. Monday morning, I drove from the hotel about 5 miles into more “downtown” Lexington. I parked in a little neighborhood with some fantastic old homes. To me, these homes were a cross between New Orleans, Charleston and Georgetown…tall, somewhat narrow, brick, half porches, some w/ columns. Visually stunning to look at. So different from what I pass on my usual jaunt to the office or just riding around Atlanta.
While running, I noticed some of what I thought were homes were actually businesses: a yoga studio, a lawyers office, etc…

Down the block from where I parked was a little Wine + Market. White coffee cups & baskets of long, slender flour dusted baguettes enticing me through the window. I walked in & smiled at the european styled decor..the painted floor, the array of cheeses, a separate, darker room called the Wine Salon. Two large wooden farm-like tables were in both the wine salon and main room…more enticement to sit & stay awhile. And I did, but I was drawn to sit outside in the morning sun.

Since I was feeling all decadent, I opted for a fresh Chocolate Croissant & Cappuccino. Ahh….heavenly.

The whole experience unscripted, unplanned, spontaneous..spontaneously coming across places that awakened my senses!

Next was the 1.5 hour drive to Cincinnati. This route along HWY 75 from Lexington into Cincinnati has got to be one of the most beautiful stretches of land. Trees and trees for as far as the eye can see. Gorgeous ranges!

Flash forward to my evening and the main event: The SF Giants vs. Cincinnati at The Great American Ballpark.

A bit early…it did fill up a bit. I was still surprised there were not more people in attendance since Reds are doing well this year!

So, I drove from Atlanta to Cincinnati for a ballgame? Why, yes I did. I sure did. If you know me, you will now this is COMPLETELY IN CHARACTER for me. I enjoy taking road trips…it had just been awhile. It was a beautiful, clear, not too warm of an evening. I had a great seat in left field. Watched my favorite team beat a team that has been better all year than Giants have been….so worth it!! A great game and Giants won 6-5.

I had a long 8-9 hour drive back home on Tuesday, but i didn’t mind. As much time as i spend alone, THIS was different. Being in your car all by yourself for hours is really alone. Not much to distract you. It’s easy to get re-focused on what’s important, what you need, etc….and it was wonderful to remember that I don’t need much. Shorts, shoes, t-shirt, money for gas & some food and all is well. Oh, and maybe some extra dough to catch a ballgame.

Don’t miss out on anything. Do what you want to do. This is life, baby!!