Sunday, August 8, 2021

Vacation Ambivalence and Fatigue


What is a vacation? For me it's a time to recharge, travel, and do something meaningful.

In that vein, I'm planning two weeks off in September for a bicycle adventure, preferably out of state. But the logistics in the light of rising Covid cases, and personal comfort level, has made me have second thoughts.

And I'm tired. Tired of the unknown, Tired of thwarted plans. Tired (and jealous) of all the visitors entering Vermont this summer because of our relatively safe environment, when in fact, despite our wonderful leadership, we're not immune to rising virus cases. Tired of doing my best in a difficult situation as if living on unstable soil. I imagine we're all exhausted. I'm due for a good cry.

We put one foot in front of the other - some days literally - and march onward, stoic, because it's the best we can do. I'll pedal somewhere in September - whether it will be meaningful and restorative remains to be seen. I'm hopeful that remaining flexible means I'll point my wheels somewhere and return home in a better headspace. 

10 comments:

  1. Oh, Annie! I think many of us can relate. It's been a rough, rough year and a half (at least for those of us who've done our best to follow guidelines). It is exhausting and it can feel like getting away is impossible as things change by the day. I know I've gone back to wearing masks in stores with lots of people -- not because I haven't been vaccinated, but because there still seems to be a lot of unknown possibilities still lurking at this point in time.

    I hope you are able to go somewhere (even if it isn't exactly what you hope for right now) that can help reset your mind and allow you a little freedom to roam. September isn't far away at all and I'm hopeful that you'll get to enjoy some pedaling time in a place a little farther away from home.

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    1. Thanks GE. You understand more than most people, having gone through upheaval of your own. My husband is currently in the northern mid west riding railtrails ( he's retired) but maybe we can travel together.I have other family obligations but I need a break.

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  2. I hope that, whatever happens, you get some stress-free bike fun in soon!
    -shawn
    https://urbanadventureleague.wordpress.com/landing-page/

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    1. Thanks Shawn. It was wonderful to hear about your little adventure.

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  3. Exactly as you feel Annie! I have moaned to anyone who will listen about being weary, tired, fatigued and actually — angry. Basically angry at those who continue to not get the vax that has the capability of stopping this dastardly virus. Do what you can and try to do some local riding that will help lift your soul. That is about what I am doing as well. We are all so very weary of it all.

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  4. Have you thought about camping or small B&B's as these are often the safest in these times. Can you put the bike on a train and cycle some and use the train. Sometimes you dont have to go too far afield for an adventure as getting away is an adventure itself. Good luck with the planning and fingers crossed you get away.

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    1. Dave, all ideas are worth considering. I have thought a one way journey worthwhile, better for exploring.

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  5. I think I can relate. I've been meaning to type a similar blog post but been putting it off. Maybe I'll do so now. Whatever you decide on for your vacation in September I'm positive you'll be able to make it meaningful and leave it feeling rejuvenated with a brighter outlook on things to come.

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  6. Thanks. I made plans, which has made me feel immensely better! I struggled with writing this post because it's not positive, but life currently is difficult for many and voicing and admitting that can be a step in the right direction.

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