The Joy of the Open Road

Hello, beautiful souls!

I recently had the exhilarating experience of driving from the vibrant city of Atlanta to the charming state of Iowa. Trust me, it was a journey to remember! While some may prefer the convenience of flying, there's something deeply enticing about the freedom and adventure that road trips offer. You can pack all you need, maybe even save some cash, and immerse yourself in the unfolding landscapes.

"Life is a highway, I wanna ride it all night long" - Song By Rascal Flatts

The Joy of Road Trips

Setting off from Atlanta, I felt an adrenaline rush, knowing that the open road was calling my name. The sights were absolutely breathtaking. One moment, I was enveloped by majestic mountains with the last traces of winter ice melting off the rocks. The next, I was passing serene rivers where, believe it or not, brave souls were fishing in 30-degree weather! Now, fishing in the cold might not be my cup of tea, but it surely added a magical touch to the journey.

Spotify (Check out my Roadtrip Playlist) was blasting my favorite tunes, a Monster energy drink sat snug in my cup holder, and Waze guided me like a trusty sidekick. This was my longest solo drive, clocking in at 10 - 12 hours, and it was incredible. Once I escaped the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, the roads were mercifully free of the usual traffic chaos. Not once did fear creep in; instead, a sense of freedom and aliveness enveloped me.

Breaks and Tips for Road Trips

Naturally, during such a long drive, taking breaks is essential. I made sure to pull into Love's gas station whenever necessary. Here’s why I swear by Love's:

1. Convenience: It’s never far off the route.

2. Safety: There’s always a steady stream of people, making it feel safe and secure.

3. Cleanliness: Their bathrooms are spotless.

4. Visibility: Locations are well-lit and reassuring during late-night stops.

   
   

While at Love's, I topped off my fuel, added some fuel injector cleaner (pro tip: this helps prolong your gas), stretched my legs, and cleaned my windshield. These pit stops were mini-charges to my spirit, fueling my excitement to jump back on the road.

Staying Comfortable on Long Drives

Driving for long stretches can be challenging, especially regarding comfort. Here are my tried-and-true tricks to prevent foot swelling:

1. Leg Positioning: Place one leg under the other while seated. This position keeps the blood flowing.

   
   

2. Strategic Venting: Rest your foot over the air vent on the left side of the steering wheel. Trust me, it works like magic to keep the circulation going. It's very comfortable too.

   
   

Road Hazards on the Highway

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – the 16-wheelers. Yes, they can be intimidating with their size and tendency to feel like they have dominion over the road. However, a little boost on the accelerator and zipping past them safely always does the trick for me!

The Heart of the Experience on the Road

There’s something incredibly therapeutic about the open road. It’s the ideal setting for reflection, planning, or enjoying the ride. It’s like free therapy, where you can let your thoughts wander as your car glides along the highway. The sense of calm and focus that comes from such solitude is unmatched.

So next time you choose between flying and driving, consider embracing the road. It’s more than just a way to reach your destination; it’s an adventure, an experience, and a story you’ll cherish forever.

Safe travels and happy adventuring, my friends. Until next time, keep the wheels turning and the vibes high!

Until Next Time . . .

Simply Jaynae