What comes to mind with the phrase, “The Road less Travelled?” The idea for this post came to my mind last week, when my husband and I found ourselves driving through Scotsburn, Nova Scotia. After a meeting with our accountant, we decided to abandon the highway for a ride through the country.
I remember as a child, my parents loading us into the car and going for a leisurely drive on a Sunday afternoon. Sometimes our destination was pre-planned, such as the country diner run by my aunt and uncle, or a visit with cousins in Upper Stewiacke. Other times it was a random route, with no specific destination. In either case, we were all together in the car, with no distractions such as cell phones. It seems these days, Sundays are filled with families running to and from sports and other activities. Few people take the time to explore their surroundings.
The phrase can also refer to choices we make throughout life. Whether it be a choice to attend a party, or what career we pursue. When raising my girls, I always tried to instill a sense of independence, hoping they would not always follow the actions of others and make their own choices. It takes a lot of confidence to not always follow the masses.
“…..the best paths are footpaths through the woods only used by a few people , not necessarily the well trodden ones.”
Words from my wise daughter to her high school graduating class. This just a couple of weeks after her decision to completely change her field of study. She challenged her classmates and parents alike to find their own path. To find something “…..that ignites passion in your heart”. Now it was my turn to learn from her, and trust in her decision to follow her own path, in her own way.
Back to our little road trip last week. I’m sure I was on roads that I have never travelled before, despite being less than 100k from my hometown. We enjoyed the beauty of the fields and trees on such a beautiful spring day.
Just as my hunger level was rising, we came across Deb’s Hidden Cafe in the community of Scotsburn, next to the old Scotsburn Dairy. The interior was a quaint, country theme. It felt like I was sitting in my grandmothers kitcken a number of years ago. Shelves lined with homemade preserves for sale. And the special that day, taco soup and grilled cheese, tasted like home.
There is something satisfying about a road trip, especially those that take you to destinations and roads unknown. Now that our girls are out of the house, I hope to take advantage of my free time to explore my surroundings. Close to home and not-so-close. I am trying to find my next path. It’s too early to tell where it will lead…….
