My two favorite things in this world are going to places I have never been and repeatedly visiting places in nature that are familiar. That sounds contradictory but it helps me stay sane when I can't travel.
When you find a place that's close and that you enjoy, it's a good idea to study it at different times of day and in different conditions. In nature, the appearance of a single tree can change with the seasons, with the weather and in varying light. It's obviously different with the new buds of spring, the thick foliage of summer, the brilliant hues of fall and the stark bareness of winter.
The light and shadows make a place different too. The presence of people give a place much different energy as well.
There's something comforting in this knowledge that while a place can change with conditions, it remains the same in its core. One of my favorite things to do is to revisit a couple of local trails I know well. To watch with quiet anticipation the first blooms of spring, to watch for the turtles on a log where they return each year, to stop and admire the first wildflowers on the forest floor - this all is pure magic.
And then there's exploration. I firmly believe that you should go somewhere you've never been every chance you get. Whether it's a far away city, a museum exhibit close by or a forest near your home, find a place you haven't seen and go there. It is good for the mind to see new things because you often will learn something. You may meet someone who changes your worldview. You may find a new passion or realize that old habits and thoughts do not serve you well.
I am dying to hit the open road and to stop and look at things that catch my eye. A road trip will hopefully be in my near future and I can hardly wait. If you haven't been somewhere new in a while, it's time to do something about that. Life should be more than a constant parade of work, chores, doctor appointments, errands, kid's sports and other obligations.
There has to be more to life than that. You get one life. Run wild and free or be quiet and introspective. Explore somewhere. Study it and learn. I have never once regretted an adventure day.
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