Let's go on an Adventure!

I've never pegged myself much of an "adventure seeker" until last year when I was in South Africa. Since I only had 5 precious months there I needed to make each moment worthwhile. From mountain climbing and sight seeing to shark cage diving and bungee jumping, each day became it's own adventure. Even the days I spent around the neighborhood were thrilling in their own way - finding a new running path, trying a different restaurant, checking out local shops; I discovered the little things had just as much value, if not more, than those that got my blood rushing. After being back in the States for almost a year now, I realized I had lost that curiosity and desire to explore my surroundings. That is, until last night.


Last night I went on an adventure. It was simple but completely eye-opening. The sky was a velvety black when I met my friend Sam outside. He wanted to show me one of his favorite spots in the city so when we started walking I had no idea where we were headed but I loved it. For someone who lives by a planner and a schedule it was freeing to let go and embrace the sensation of wandering. Purposeful wandering. When we arrived at the destination I stood there in awe. There was nothing out of the ordinary - water, stars, trees, but the arrangement was beautiful in a simple way. He told me that he stumbled upon this place when he was walking around one day and I couldn't help but wonder, "When was the last time I did that? Just take the time to walk around with no itinerary and see what I find?" The fact that I couldn't remember motivated this entry.  "Milwaukee has so much to offer but unlike Chicago where you can easily find cool things in a lot of places, you have to look for those spots here." "You're right, Sam...guess I've got a lot of exploring to do!"


When was the last time you threw your schedule to the wind and went on an adventure? I'm not talking five day camping trips out in the woods (though those count too) but even just five minutes to put down that article for class or project for work and simply observe your surroundings? You might have noticed how windy it was when your hair annoyingly whipped across your face a dozen times but did you see how the trees over there elegantly danced in rhythm with the breeze? Or how about the little boy laughing as he played with a stick at the bus stop when you rushed across the street to class?


So what are you waiting for? Go on an adventure - you never know what you're missing unless you take the time to look.


Blessings,


Janelle