Sometimes joy comes from unexpected or simple sources. Such was the case when I recently traveled to New Rochelle, New York for a 3-day writing conference. Before the conference started, I walked to the shoreline that is adjacent to Hudson Park. I walked downhill from my hotel to the nearby harbor. Yep, my return walk was a bit more invigorating.
What I observed…
The harbor had an assortment of boats, but the nearby park was empty. I explored this small local haven on my own without a soul in sight. I imagined the hustle and bustle that would be associated with a crowded weekend. Children’s laughter and tears were absent.
A cool breeze laced with sea salt reminded me of my location. After living in a landlocked location, it was refreshing to take in the odors associated with a waterfront. I breathed in deeply. I felt refreshed.
I followed one inviting entryway into the park. I tried to get my bearings. My trip had been a spur of the moment decision. I hadn’t even checked out the logistics online. After climbing up a few stairs, I could see the perimeter. Despite its petite size, Hudson Park was a true delight.
As streaks of sunlight filtered through the trees onto a statue of Columbus, I wondered why a famous New Yorker hadn’t been given the honor.
The beach access was closed. I was unable to walk down to the shoreline. From a small bluff, I stood and watched. A handful of birds strolled along the sand. My cell phone was left to record my adventure.
I sat for a while. I relaxed. I smiled. I embraced my solitude and appreciated my surroundings.
Too often business travelers don’t venture outside. Instead, they move from meeting to meeting, They rarely enjoy a simple thing like a local park along Long Island Sound. I highly recommend taking a short outdoor outing.
When was the last time you did something outdoors during a business trip?
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BIO
Sandra Bornstein is the author of MAY THIS BE THE BEST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE It is available on Amazon.
Sandra’s memoir highlights her living and teaching adventure in Bangalore, India. She is a licensed Colorado teacher who has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses. Sandra is married and has four adult sons.
The memoir was a finalist in the Travel category for the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the 2013 International Book Awards, the 2013 National Indie Book Excellence Awards, 2013 USA Best Book Awards, and a Honorable Mention award in the Multicultural Non-Fiction category for the 2013 Global ebook Awards.
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