My husband and I just returned from a few weeks away from home. We flew out to California for a family wedding, tacking on days before and after the big event to explore the “Golden State.” It was my first “real” trip (I had flown in and out of Oakland for 3 nights o f the Grateful Dead in 1990.) The week was chock full of activities, exploration, and family time. The wedding itself was held at a beautiful vineyard and I experienced my first bout of dry heat (temps were in the hundreds for most of our stay). Running was much easier without the humidity and bugs of the Northeast and I enjoyed exploring the varied landscapes, from San Francisco’s steep hills to the quaint neighborhoods of Rocklin over the course of 9 travel days. I was looking forward to the trip despite having to leave my animal friends behind.

Transitioning from my home schedule to vacation mode, despite the anticipation and excitement, did prove difficult, as did returning to my humble abode. We traveled from coast to coast, lost and gained time, and acclimated to entirely new climates (San Francisco was cold and required sweatshirts, Rocklin and Morro Bay were hot and dry.) I marveled in the ease of running in dry heat, gazed at giant Redwood trees, drove through miles upon miles of flat farmland surrounded by dry or burnt hills, and experienced the dramatic coastline with its shorebirds and surf. But I always fare better when I gradually acclimate to new experiences. Traveling from my lush New England hills to the desert via crowded airports was not the best for my particular nervous system. I did practice acceptance and was kind to myself, which is newer behavior. I allowed myself to be tired and sleep in, cutting my morning routines a bit short to incorporate extra sleep. I took mini breaks from family, returning to the hotel early when needed or skipping a particular extra activity. I allowed myself to be myself! My extra sensitive, introverted, addictive personality self. And it made the weeks float gently by, despite the wealth of opportunities to engage in a myriad of activities. In essence, I took care of myself and the transitions, although difficult, did not break me.