As a resident of Connecticut, I relish the moment in the summer when I can get in my car, program the GPS and hear those sweet, sweet words:
"Merge onto I-80W. Continue straight for 1,830 miles."
Ahhhh, the west. I have had an on-again, off-again relationship with the west for the last 8 years now. During the year, I try hard to live somewhat responsibly, working as a science teacher, paying my bills, attempting to date and spending time with family and friends. But inevitably when June rolls around, I quickly forget about my obligations, savings account and budding relationships. I find myself in the car, downing Red Bulls, forgoing showers and driving 30+ hours to rekindle my longest running romance.
I'm not sure what keeps drawing me back to the west; more importantly, I'm not sure why I leave come August. Why have I not tried to make this relationship more than just a summer fling? What holds me back from fully committing myself to something that makes me ridiculously happy and fulfilled?
Over the years, this summer fling has cost me job opportunities, long-term romantic relationships and any semblance of savings. But at no time have I ever questioned if it is worth it. Instead I keep coming back for more. And more.
This year I have a very distinct feeling that I may be finally ready to settle down and commit. A 36-hour drive gives you plenty of time to think about what is holding you back and I've assembled a list of what I believe keeps me from manning up (or in my case, womaning up) and doing it:
1. A job I enjoy ( this only became true this past year)
2. Family nearby
3. A great outdoor community and network of friends
4. Familiarity with awesome climbing, mountain biking and trail running areas
5. Money
Don't get me wrong- these are all important and I am blessed to have all of them in my life. However, as I get older, I am starting to realize that as far as we know, we only get one shot at this life. There are always reasons not to pursue your dreams- very good, valid reasons. But by not taking risks and pursuing your dreams you inevitably run the risk of waking up and regretting missed opportunities- or worse, trying to live them through your children.
For myself, I know that if I don't buy a van and take off for the unknown with my dog in the next year or two, I am going to wake up one morning feeling a strange emptiness, wondering what might have been.
And it is about time I consummated this relationship.
"Merge onto I-80W. Continue straight for 1,830 miles."
Ahhhh, the west. I have had an on-again, off-again relationship with the west for the last 8 years now. During the year, I try hard to live somewhat responsibly, working as a science teacher, paying my bills, attempting to date and spending time with family and friends. But inevitably when June rolls around, I quickly forget about my obligations, savings account and budding relationships. I find myself in the car, downing Red Bulls, forgoing showers and driving 30+ hours to rekindle my longest running romance.
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| Too... much... red... bull... |
Over the years, this summer fling has cost me job opportunities, long-term romantic relationships and any semblance of savings. But at no time have I ever questioned if it is worth it. Instead I keep coming back for more. And more.
 |
| Lauren getting high on Thor 5.10b in Ten Sleep, WY |
1. A job I enjoy ( this only became true this past year)
2. Family nearby
3. A great outdoor community and network of friends
4. Familiarity with awesome climbing, mountain biking and trail running areas
5. Money
Don't get me wrong- these are all important and I am blessed to have all of them in my life. However, as I get older, I am starting to realize that as far as we know, we only get one shot at this life. There are always reasons not to pursue your dreams- very good, valid reasons. But by not taking risks and pursuing your dreams you inevitably run the risk of waking up and regretting missed opportunities- or worse, trying to live them through your children.
 |
| "You WILL project Cocaine Rodeo- don't give that look!" |
And it is about time I consummated this relationship.
 |
| Yeah... we could live here. |
I fully and wholeheartedly support every word on this page
ReplyDeleteand you SHOULD project cocaine rodeo! great climb
You forgot THE OCEAN!!!! And surfing with us (not that waves have been the best this year, but that's why we are New Englanders ;)!
ReplyDelete~Kim~
Although I also think you make a very good point, go for it in your heart leads you there, you can always go back home no matter what happens.....
DeleteDo it. Sooner than 2 years.
ReplyDeleteLove, Rebecca the life coach :)