My Daily Journey

This is the road I take to and from work every day. While there are probably 30 other ways I could go, I've come to love this short stretch of road, and I choose to drive this route every single day. It's beautiful . . . almost my zen like place where I can clear my mind and forget the chaos of home and focus on the day ahead. It is planked on each side with such lovely trees that feel as if they are reaching out to hug me each morning and afternoon, as I head to and from my job. In the morning, when this picture was taken, the sun beams down between the branches, as if a message was coming straight down from the Big Man Upstairs (aka. God). I always feel like he is sending me a message when I see those sun rays between the leaves. So so heavenly.

No matter what time of year I drive down this road, it speaks to me.

In the Summer, the foliage fills every open space, so much that you can't see very far into the woods as you drive down the road.  Occasionally, a family of deer might cross in front of your car (which is why I always choose to drive a little under the speed limit when heading this way. I mean, why rush the beauty of it all?) If there aren't cars behind me, I'll bring my car to a stop now and then and look deep into the trees for any sign of life. Once in a while, I see the deer, and watch them drift further and further into the unknown forest . . . wondering where they are going, and how will they know they've gotten there when there?

In the Fall, the trees provide the most vivid display of yellows, oranges and a few reds here or there. Often you will find the hood of your car is the perfect resting place for fallen leaves that have been released from their branches. So peaceful . . . a leaf falling . . . .don't you think?

In the Winter, fresh fallen snow leaves white lines on each tree branch. It looks as if Van Gogh himself painted those thin white lines of snow on each branch. It's so quiet, it's truly is a bit of heaven.

And in Spring, it's the sign of new life . . . as the trees slowly welcome baby leaf buds as they start their growth. This road is the first sign of warmer weather to me. Love to see those leaves grow.

Yes, this is my daily journey . . . my place of quiet solitude and meditation. My place of being with nature. My place of peace. Should PG and I ever decide to move, this little road will certainly be what I miss most.

How about you? Do you have any roads or paths that help you feel at peace? I'm wondering - do you ever make a decision to take a certain route and drive a certain way just because of how it makes you feel? I sure would love to know . . .