Two years ago, I moved to a rural town. My lifestyle changed. I lost conveniences that I appreciated.
I lost this.
To many, that's not a big deal. To be fair, I have to admit, my town has a couple of drive-thru coffee stands. I just don't have my favorite. Beyond not having a drive-thru Starbucks, I couldn't "get-away" for a coffee at night, after dinner or when the kids were in bed. Where I lived before I could trek to Starbucks, sit and chat with a friend until 11 p.m.
After we moved, my husband would lovingly suggest that I needed a break and that maybe I should go out. I'd say, "Go WHERE?" or "Ya, I'll go hang out at Wal-mart." Needless to say, I didn't have the best attitude.
When you decide to make-do, sometimes you discover something wonderful.
Sometime last summer, I began riding my bike again.
Bike riding became my "get-away".
It started as just something to do because it was all I could think to do. It turned into something I love.
I love my bike rides. It's peaceful and quiet. I have time to think and pray. It's a wonderful way to appreciate nature. I get exercise. It is time that is all mine.
A Saturday morning bike ride is a fantastic way to wake up. It is almost as enjoyable as sleeping in. A bike ride in the evening is wonderful way to wind-down after a busy day. It is easy to appreciate a beautiful sunset on my bike.
I still love my cup of Starbucks. I just grab it less often (which is just fine for our budget, by the way).
I look forward to my rides. They are more significant to me than any one of my Starbucks get-aways.
I wouldn't trade this beauty for a latte any day.
The pictures were taken with my phone. If you look closely, in this next one you can see a deer.
Each week Ann Kroeker hosts Make-Do Mondays. You need to stop by Ann's blog: Ann Kroeker. Writer. Ann is inspirational. She has a book, Not So Fast, coming out August 1st. Check out the Not So Fast book website: Not So Fast (I hadn't visited her book website in a while. Ironically, I just noticed her latest post there is about bike riding. I love it!)
12 comments:
I love how you find the beauty in everything. :)
I love my bike too! Check out http://www.coveredbridgetour.org
Justin, Didi, Sheila and I are doing the shortest ride. We would love to have more company :)
What a great way to get way and unwind and relax kid free! I have a bike but don't use it as much as I need too! When I have the time, it is usually too hot and that becomes my excuse! Your rides look peaceful and relaxing....good for you! (I am a little jealous!)
I need a bike!!! Hey my church is starting VBS this week. Dinner starts at 5:45 VBS starts at 6-8:30 if you were interested. I thought it may help the kids get familiar with the church if you were still thinging about Awanas. Just to let you know.
another inspirational post. I have a bike, too. I just don't have the scenery you have. If it wasn't going to be 95 degrees today, I might go for a ride.
(Matt just rode to the top or Mt. Rainier and he's going to do it again - maybe you want to join him.) :)
Sharon
Beautiful pix.
You've inspired me. I think I will ride my bike soon.
Wish I had vistas like yours!
Alas, the nearest Starbucks in my neck of the woods is about an hour away, in the "Big City"...that helps my pocket book, too!
Great post...I love the pictures.
I'm so glad you found something to help you with your time.
I never really learned how to ride a bike myself, so I have no idea what the feeling is like.
Enjoy your time!
What an awesome treat to experience Gods wonderful creations & have alone time with the creator! That is perfect alone time! Love your pictures. Just beautiful.
Loved this post, JA!!! so glad you've been able to enjoy your bike rides and the beauty of where you live. BUT . . . . . . . . .
I miss our late night treks to Starbucks and chatting til we are practically pushed out the door!!!!
Do you know I have a bike that is brand new. It has been hanging in my garage for 5 years. Let's go riding together soon! That would be fun!
That's all around here?! Gorgeous. I've lived here forever and I always complain that there's not a drive thru Starbucks.
And, unfortunately, I've found myself wanting to go to Walmart to get away. :(
I think if I came from someplace that actually had that, and then lost it when I moved, I'd go CRAZY.
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