I Detest Travel Days

At least I thought I did. Instead I discovered that Travel Days are moments of Gratitude.

Almost two years on the road and I still feel it — the anxiety of travel days. At first, it was because of all of the unknowns — unknown roads, unknown RV parks, unknown gas stations, unknown skills.

I am more comfortable with all of the unknowns now. The skills I have acquired RVing has helped.

BUT…

But I find I still sometimes dread travel days and the longer we stay somewhere the deeper the dread sometimes gets. It is like starting all over again.

A level of anticipation creeps up and consumes me, not with “I can’t wait to hit the road” but more of a “Do I have to?”

I should be looking forward to those days…not feeling apprehensive.

“Roads were made for journeys, not destinations.”

Confucius

Hwy 62 between Arizona and Joshua Tree — Iron Mountain and a Quirky Sign. Photo by Tony Locke

It wasn’t until recently that I realized the day itself was not what made me anxious.

We were driving on Hwy 62, after leaving Quartzsite, Arizona and heading to Joshua Tree. It was along stretch of nothing but scenery. I found myself just enjoying the ride. Enjoying the surrounding landscape. Enjoying the MOMENT!!!

Then it hit me, I don’t detest travel days. How could I when each mile of the journey enhances my life.

I gazed out the window, awestruck by the passing beauty, a perfect reminder of how life is truly precious — and so are travel days.

It is not the actual day itself I detest, but the preparations before leaving — mentally and physically.

I started this journey because my most memorable moments as a child were road trips with my family. It is on the road where I feel the most at home and the most relaxed. It soothes my wanderlust.

I then reminded myself that travel days are actually moments of Gratitude.

Gratitude for the time and opportunity we have to do this.
Gratitude for the precious moments and memories as a result.
Gratitude for each mile of stunning scenery we have discovered.
Gratitude for the reminder of all of that is wonderful and beautiful about this country.
Gratitude for Betty Jo (the Airstream) for all she does to make this journey special.

Travel days can be stressful but the rewards and gratitude should outweigh any stress.