unremarkable

I had a rough swim on Friday.  The only open lane – thanks, high school swim team – had two people already swimming there.  And we couldn’t do a circle swim since one of the women was doing the “I can’t get my hair wet” breaststroke. Sigh.

So, I waited for about 15 minutes before one of them got out and then started my laps.  The “can’t get her hair wet” woman remained and she took up most of the lane – crowding me near the barrier between us and the swim team.

And, of course, I got kicked.    Not enough to hurt, just enough to throw me off my stride.

I kept at it, though, and finished my laps.  

In the parking lot, I ordered dinner for Jim and I and then headed out to pick it up.  There were several routes I could have taken, but the most direct route was right through the middle of town.  At 5:15 on a Friday. 

But, the likely delay with the traffic meant I’d arrive just as the food was ready.  So, I headed out, picked my lane, and turned on the music and heater. 

I was comfortably loose from my swim and the car warmed up quickly.   The music was from my collection and the songs were familiar to sing along with, if the mood struck me.  And it did, from time to time. 

I made my way through town at a steady and unhurried pace, safe in my warm mobile cocoon.

And it was peaceful.  As much as driving can be – I didn’t take a nap or anything.  But, I didn’t get upset or swear at any other drivers.  And the density of traffic didn’t bother me.  I knew my route, I had a plan, and the drive was unremarkable. 

I pulled into the lot of the restaurant with 1 minute to spare and the food was just being put on the shelf as I walked in. 

As I made my way home, a curious thought occured to me.    That I could just keep driving and hold onto this peaceful feeling.  I could tap in any destination to my GPS and just…drive.   I strangely didn’t want it to end.    Everything was just lined up and simple, with easy goals and no conflicts.

Remarkable.

But, I was down to a quarter tank of gas and Jim was waiting at home for the food slowly cooling in my passenger seat. 

Instead of some far-flung destination, I tapped the “home” button and dutifully followed that route.  I knew my way, but the GPS has a nice voice and I like to give her easy routes occasionally to make up for all the construction detours she’s gotten me through. 

And as I pulled into my driveway, the moment passed.  It was time to take the food inside and end the quiet adventure. 

A few miles of road in a warm car with good music and an easy destination.  

We take our peace where we can find it.