I drove from Utah to South Dakota yesterday, once again confirming that if I were a trucker, I’d be fired. I stopped along the way to look at interesting buildings, snap pictures with my iPhone, and once I even stopped to take a nap. I’ve travelled a lot in my life, but I’ve never achieved the air of a seasoned traveler. I am a clunky, curious sort, laboring forth with way too much emotional and literal baggage. Still, I am proud of the progress I’ve made so far on this journey. 

Handcart, Wyoming

I left Utah at 4:45 a.m. yesterday morning. That’s a world record for me, friends, so it must mean something. Perhaps it was my focus from Part 1: Leaving the House that helped. Also, I’m ready to see my Minnesotan friends. 

stretch of highway, Wyoming

In Part 1, I confessed that part of returning to Minnesota means going back to a place where I once sought validation through earning a PhD. I thought that would get me somewhere. Perhaps I should have been more specific with the “somewhere” I was seeking. I did, however, eventually come away with the trite-but-true realization that life is to be enjoyed. We can strive to accomplish stuff, sure, but not at the mercy of everything else. 

Yesterday’s theme was about “Remaining Open.” I am open to possibilities, which is trickier than it sounds because it means setting aside my preconceived notions of how my world should look. 

Old Restaurant Sign

A and W Rootbeer Sign Shifters

While driving through the vast, open expanses of Wyoming landscape, I decided that from here on out, I’ll make up my own success measurements. The chief one, I’ve determined, has to do with my completely and irrevocably accepting myself and all of my raging imperfections. This type of acceptance does not come easily to me, but I find it essential if I am to move on in my life with any semblance of grace.  

Old building, Wyoming

Martin's Cove Handcart Historic Site, Wyoming

Today’s Part Three Theme is simple: Noticing Stuff. I have left the house and I remain open. And I will notice stuff. It sounds simple. It sounds inviting. And I sure will give it a try. 

Old Restaurant, Wyoming

Blog-boss Jessica needs one more article out of me, so I’ll be back soon. 

trying out Handcarts, Wyoming

Peace & Perfect Road Trips, 
Debra 

P.S. “Minneapolis is only nine hours away from Rapid City,” you might be thinking. Yes, you are correct. I am in charge of noticing things today, however. I may not make it to Minneapolis until tomorrow. 

Read the series!
Part One, Leaving the House
Part Three, Noticing Things
The Art of Road Tripping: The Way Back Home

Debra Payne, PhD, Obstacle Blasting Coach, is a long time contributing editor for Wandering Educators. Debra works with people to get big, long, scary projects done and she can also help people get through college. Debra specializes in ADHD Coaching and you can find her here: http://www.debrapaynephd.com/. You can also email her directly at debra[at]debrapaynephd.com

All photos courtesy and copyright Debra Payne