Jessie: In Toronto enjoying a change of pace.
Lately, I’ve been on the road far more than is normal for me. In fact, by the end of the month I will have been away from home for 21 days in July. It has been fun and a bit of a whirlwind but mostly it has been a great chance to shake up my routine.
Since I work from home as a writer full time I tend to spend most of my waking hours alone except for the imaginary people. I live in a rural village in New Hampshire for most of the year and rarely encounter crowds, public transportation or even something as exotic as a Whole Foods. It is a wonderful life but a sedate one much of the time. And it is easy to fall into a rut. I tend to see the same people, hear the same languages and eat the same foods most of the time.
But this month has been filled with novelties. In the airports and on the streets I overhear conversations in languages I cannot identify. I see clothing styles and intriguing pairs of shoes and architecture that soars or gleams or impresses. I walk out the door of the hotel and purchase tiny pineapples and rolls warm from a bakery. I drink coffee I did not make myself.
It feels expansive and refreshing. I had no idea how much I would love wandering the streets of San Juan or poking about D.C. and Toronto. I love the spirit of adventure that being in parts unknown brings out in me. It has even been inspiring some ideas for my work. I am already looking forward my next trip. But, I think I’ll enjoy spending a little time back home first!
Readers, do you love to shake up your routine now and again? If so, what is your preferred way to do so?