I make a point of distinguishing the difference between travel and vacation.

The former includes packed itineraries, pressure to experience once-in-a-lifetime moments, and the requirement of recuperation afterward.

This past week has been a proper vacation. Thanks to the generosity and kindness of friends and family, Sarah and I were able to choose among options that included “walk along the beach,” “sit by a pool,” and “leisurely explore a nearby city.”

Another distinction of a vacation is that there is margin to be surprised.

Without a set schedule, we were able to focus on each other and stumble upon things like an important spot where Sarah’s favorite movie was filmed (Forrest Gump’s bench), try out various local coffee shops while we talked about what the other loved to do (and why we enjoyed the things we do so much), and visit very old trees to gain a bit of perspective.

Life is getting ready to explode again come November in new and beautiful ways. This week has served as a reminder that while driving toward goals and prioritizing efficiency can yield benefits, making sure that there is margin for connection and being surprised by one’s surroundings shouldn’t be forgotten.

vcD,
-R

p.s. Relaxing was evidently the thing needed to let loose on a new bit of creativity my mind had been hinting at as of late. I bought a new notebook and my pen has barely stopped any chance I get to jot down some thoughts.