Not All Who Wander Are Lost
The Imber’s arrive tomorrow, meaning phase two of this journey is drawing to an end. The last two weeks have been all about doing whatever I felt like when I got up in the morning and largely exploring on my own. Besides the weekends with Tommy in Paris and Prague I spent my days on my own hopping around from place to place on the train.
This concept was definitely new to me and there is no doubt I struggled at times. But I managed to navigate many a city and small village. Went on organized tours and just wandered on my own. Talked with locals, shopped for souvenirs, ate way too much gelato, and contented myself with slow solo meals.
I traveled by train, van, bus, bike and my own two feet, averaging 8 miles of walking a day. I saw four countries and learned just as many ways to say hello and thank you. Explored seven different Dutch towns and ate gelato at least once a day, because it turns out there is no such thing as too much gelato.
I practiced with my camera and tried to get more comfortable with using it on manual. Many days I got home to realize I had it in a bad setting or didn’t pay enough attention to my F-Stop. But there is no doubt I am developing better instincts.
The title of this post is probably a bit corny, but this saying has always been one of my favorites. It serves as a reminder and speaks to a part of me that I rarely listen to. I often let my anxiety and uncertainty get in the way of my adventurous side but deep down I know it’s okay to wander now and then.
This week marks exactly one year since I started traveling to NYC for work and there is no doubt that while terrifying, the decision to do so was extremely influential and positive. This trip in many ways is a continuation of that adventure and an affirmation that I can let my heart lead from time to time. Even when my brain tells me it doesn’t make any sense.
I’m not sure what’s next but I am excited to see it all unfold. For now, bring on phase 3!! The KooImber’s take on Northern Europe!!
