Some days are full. Full of needs and wants, so much in fact, that I feel like I have nothing left to give. It makes me think back to days of yore (aka before I had kids,) when I could call out sick from school or work. Or fake a headache, because in honesty, my head was just too full to hold anything more.
But now, with a home full of kids, and regular household stuff, bills, and life – I sometimes wish I could call my mom from the nurses office to come pick me up from school. I sometimes want a sick day. Yesterday was one of those days.
So last night, when my amazing husband came home from work, he could see on my unwashed-I-tried-to-take-a-shower-but-no-one-napped face, that I needed a break. I was full. My emotions were being pushed to the max.
He scooped up the kids after dinner, and told me to go for a drive.
Now, I’ve told you guys how my car is pretty much my personal therapist before. I take the kids out on long drives on no nap days, or when the weather has been wicked bad for weeks on end. We go exploring, see boats and trees, all from the comfort of my car.
Sometimes we even go for drives in pajamas.
Last night, was another pajama night. But it was different, because I was by myself.
I listened to music that I wanted to listen to, like pieces my wind ensemble, The American Band, will be performing this year.
I drove throughout the East Bay of Rhode Island, and ended up at Sakonnet Point Path in Little Compton. On my way I drove through Colt State Park in Bristol, Roger Williams Campus, the quaint town of Tiverton, and countless farmlands filled with tall corn and cows munching on their dinner.
When I arrived at the end of the road, literally, I parked my car and stepped out into the fresh ocean air.
There was a gorgeous view of the Sakonnet Lighthouse, as well as the many boats in the marina.
Sakonnet Point is a bit out of the way in Rhode Island terms, and is incredibly quiet. For such a gorgeous evening and sunset, I was shocked that I was actually all alone soaking in the water yesterday…and then I remembered that most Rhode Islanders think driving past 15 minutes is too long of a drive. I had taken the extra long route, and got there in a little over an hour.
And man did it make me feel better. The waves upon the rocks, the occasional bird, and the silence of the ocean.
I stayed until the sun faded away, and the first star of the evening showed bright.
So if you ever feel like you are having a “full” day, I honestly suggest taking a good old fashioned drive. Even if you have to wait until the kids are already in bed, this time of year the sun sets much later in the day. Go out there, by yourself, and have an evening drive.
Pajamas are optional.
Talk soon, friends!
-Mary