Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Patience is a virtue......and not much fun? Whatever

While I had fully thought that our out of state transition would now be complete, my situation finds me yet, sitting here in Idaho.  While initially I had determined this to be a problem, it has been decided that it is truly a great transition point for my family in relocating to a mountain town.

Life in a resort area is a substantially different experience.  I recently recall a midweek conversation with my now 7 year old son where he asked why all the people hadn't gone home yet so we could have the good McCall back.  Translation, sign no. 1 that you are transitioning to mountain town life.

Sign no. 2 you are transitioning to a mountain town is geared much more toward the adults.  In a recent trip to the valley, I felt as though I was buying everything at wholesale.  Living in a resort town is somewhat like living in an airport at times.

Sign no. 3, and my most favorite, people have more time.  More time for meaningful conversation, more time to listen, more time to put down the phone, computer and reflect on the meaning and purpose of life and more time with family.

What am I learning about patience?  I value the little things I have and am learning, right now, in the moment!

Cheers

Monday, July 16, 2012

Chapter 2

With the mercury climbing the thermometer well above the 100 degree mark, the allure of the cool mountain air never sounded quite as refreshing.  With the top removed from the Jeep a balmy morning would soon become borderline unbearable as I headed up the hill, the breeze slapping my face.  Rounding the bend, just beyond the rafting paradise of Banks he stood there waiting.  I'd never pick up a hitch hiker, but, with numerous trips up SH-55 under my belt, this time the thought of company was welcomed.

The absence of traffic in the early mid-morning allowed for a quick turn around.  "My name's Scot", and with his short introduction, he tossed his knapsack in the back and we were on the road.  I soon came to find that he was roughly my fathers age.  With his wife at home and his children grown, with families of their own, he had decided to do something he'd always wanted and travel the Northwest, searching for the best hot springs.

The conversation proved very enjoyable.  I learned of his adventures, the places he'd been, his background, the people he'd met and most importantly, I learned that if you are seeking knowledge, life experience and true adventure, you will not only find it everyday, but, you will find yourself unintentionally aligned with people of similar mindset.

Prior to this chance encounter I'd become so engrossed in my task that I begin to lose sight of the true purpose of what I set out to accomplish.  My two week hiatus from writing has proven to bring this collection of life lessons, reflections and malted-hopped ramblings back to center.  My attempt at writing what I'd learned became the focal point over extracting daily morsels of knowledge through my life experience.  

Life is an adventure.

Cheers