A few weeks ago, I met my daughter, Amanda, at her beautiful college in update New York. I
had to fly there, from Wisconsin, and navigate three trains to get there, but seeing her smiling face when she picked me up at the train station was worth every traveling minute.
She had her car at her college, so we both drove back together, over 1,000
miles, visiting family along the way. It was a wonderful trip.
Sometimes we may think we have to do something extravagant for a vacation, like a trip to Disneyworld, Hawaii, or the Bahamas. Of course, all of those places are wonderful. But a simple road trip can be truly satisfying as well.
Our journey home mostly took us along the highway, but that didn't make it any less special. The long stretches of road provided the perfect backdrop for conversation, laughter, and shared playlists.
Along the way, we indulged in a variety of lovely restaurants and visited a few local shops. While we were both looking forward to getting home...these brief reprieves gave us a chance to relax and regroup.
Amanda and I stopped at a very
nice hotel in Perrysburg, OH...the midpoint of our trip. It was located in such a nice area and the hotel was perfect for a cozy and comfortable overnight stay.
The most fulfilling part of the trip, of course, was simply being together. Most of us know how easy it is to forget to slow down and appreciate the presence of our loved ones. This
road trip gave my daughter and me the chance to do just that.
As we neared home, I reflected on how this trip, though simple in its concept, was profound in its impact. It reinforced the idea that the essence of a great vacation isn’t necessarily found in how far you travel or how much money you spend but in the quality of the time
spent and the memories made.
Road trips allow for a kind of exploration and bonding that is both intimate and expansive, a balance that is sometimes hard to achieve in more extravagant vacations.
So, if you’re contemplating your next vacation, consider the charm and simplicity of a road trip. Embrace the journey, cherish the company, and be open to the unexpected adventures that come your way.
Sometimes, the most meaningful experiences are found not in the destination, but in the journey itself.
By the way, reaching our home safe and sound was pretty sweet too!
P.S. By the way, staying hydrated during long road trips is a must. Be sure to always have water and snacks for your journey. Before you leave for your destination, stock an insulated cooler bag!
