MsWriteNow

On Monday, I spent the day roaming downtown Madison, WI. When I volunteered to accompany a couple of friends on this trip, at the time I had no idea how much I needed a change of scenery. I realize I am someone who does need to get out there and go to different towns for a day, and I usually do that once or twice a month. Problem is, I’ve been going to the same 3-4 towns every time I felt I need a “change of scenery”. It didn’t occur to me until last night that my idea of a change of scenery was actually part of the rut I am in.

I was born in Madison, but we moved out of that area when I was still a baby. Even though it is a popular spot for many of us Wisconsinites to go and visit, I will admit, have never spent anytime there. As the morning rush traffic scrambled to their jobs and classes, I sat in a coffee shop taking in the scene and enjoyed a good visit with a friend. Usually when I go visit a new city or town, I feel a bit awkward and a little tense, even though it may not outwardly show. Part of it is being an introvert and surrounded by a lot of people really drains my energy. The other part is not knowing the people and feeling the need to be on alert and protective. I was surprised that I did not feel this way at all, even as we passed people on the streets that I suspect would have caused me to tense up in other towns. I felt calm and relaxed the entire day and was sad when it was time to leave.

After that change of scenery, I came home relaxed, refreshed and energized. I’m not sure if it was due to the fact that I found a book of Anne Sexton poems at a used bookstore, or that I was surrounded by a total different vibe of people, or that the city is so incredibly eclectic, or that I was able to spend the afternoon city on a terrace watching sailboats and people at the same time - all I know is that I feel like my dry soul has been quenched and the trip turned my last day of summer into a wonderful summer memory.

Think about the last time you had a change of scenery? Do you find that you have a certain place you go when you need that change in scenery? After this experience, I think I may have to reach out and explore newer towns.