Sometimes, you just need to hit the road and embrace spontaneity—even if it feels foreign. As a mother of two grown sons, aged 22 and 20, I’ve found myself reflecting on the rapid passage of time. With one son freshly graduated and the other navigating college life independently, I’m learning to adjust to this new phase of parenting.
Recently, while many parents were busy with school supply lists, my husband and I decided to embark on an impromptu trip to Santa Fe—a destination we had longed to explore. With just four and a half days to spare, we hit the road from Dallas, not just to escape our routine but to commemorate my tenth anniversary as a breast cancer survivor while celebrating my birthday.
As we departed the city and the traffic began to dissipate, the scenery transformed from mundane to breathtaking. I lost myself in the picturesque landscapes, feeling the rhythm of the highway as thoughts swirled in my mind. We drove for hours through the vastness of the West, stopping for a break in Clovis, New Mexico, where we crossed time zones. Watching my phone jump an hour back gave me a sense of control over time itself, as if I could manipulate the aging process.
The following morning, our road trip continued. I snapped photos, distributed snacks, and belted out tunes from my youth, from The Temptations to Cat Stevens. At times, colorful trains zipped past us, horns blaring, adding an unexpected soundtrack to our journey.
Exploring Santa Fe
Our first day in Santa Fe—my birthday—was exhilarating yet overwhelming as we adjusted to the altitude. We explored the city on foot, despite a brief encounter with a chili pepper that I would rather forget. That evening, we found ourselves at a bustling restaurant, where I noticed a young mother trying to juggle her baby and dinner. As I observed their chaotic yet loving interactions, nostalgia washed over me. I could see my husband reflecting on his own experiences with our boys during those years.
The next day, as we strolled past art galleries, we spotted the same parents from the restaurant. The mom was fully engaged with her baby, radiating joy and wonder. It reminded me how, during parenthood, we often think we can maintain our lives as usual, only to find ourselves swept into their world.
Reflections on the Journey
Our trip included charming conversations with locals, a rainy drive to a flea market, and moments of peaceful reflection. On our return to Texas, we relished the silence, occasionally laughing at the audiobook we shared. The road stretched endlessly before us, and I was struck by the beauty of the landscapes—clouds so inviting that I longed to step out and play among them.
Aging, I’ve come to understand, isn’t merely a function of time; it offers countless opportunities to embrace youthfulness. It requires an openness to new experiences and a willingness to shift perspectives. This journey not only reignited my sense of adventure but also reminded me of the importance of spontaneity.
Overall, our road trip was a delightful reminder of life’s fleeting moments. Inspired by Cat Stevens and his lyrics about cherishing our time on earth, I feel rejuvenated and more spontaneous than ever.
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In summary, this road trip was more than just a getaway; it was an opportunity to reconnect with my inner child, embrace spontaneity, and celebrate life’s milestones with gratitude.
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