The Touristy Thing

The other day, I slipped my feet into my sandals, slung my pack over my shoulders, checked for my wallet, plugged in my iPod, and began my  half hour walk into the sleepy downtown area of  Vancouver Island's Campbell River (population 30,000?). I don’t usually prefer to spend time alone window shopping – I think it would be a whole lot more fun with a girlfriend,  – but this time I was looking forward to it.

Dave and I have been staying at his mom’s  oceanfront Condo for the past few days, helping her as she is recuperating from hip replacement surgery. I’m in charge of the cooking/cleaning/shopping/laundry, and Dave is looking after foot massages, helping his mom with her exercises, appointments, and just being a listening ear. Oh, I often chat along, too, but it’s a special time for his mom to have time with her son, whom she doesn’t see too often since we live about 8 hours away from here (including a ferry ride).

Anyway, sometimes one needs time away and I heard there was a little used bookstore on the main street heading into town. So, I took the trek into town, admiring the view of the water as I went along. I spent a good 45 minutes in the store, scanning the crowded aisles for some good reads. Unfortunately, the prices weren’t as good as Value Village! I have a hard time paying more than a few dollars for a used book, unless it’s a collectible or something I’ve been looking for for a while. But, to its credit, the shop did have a discount bin, and I found 2 summer holiday reads for Dave—for the total price of $1. Even if the books were duds, it would be no big loss. Nothing for myself, though, but it didn’t really matter, since I did take along a backpack full of books from home for this holiday. It’s not like I NEEDED to purchase any more books. Sometimes it’s just fun to treasure hunt, though.

Feeling somewhat peckish, I headed across the street to a Booster Juice-type shop and ordered a delicious ginger/mango/coconut smoothie – the best ever! – and sat outside and sipped it as I rested my weary legs and began reading one of Dave’s books.  Once I was ready to move again, I bee-lined it to the yarn shop I spotted across the street. What a wonderful place! So, I browsed a while and finally decided upon a  few skeins of sock yarn – projects for Christmas presents (I’m hoping).Then, I popped my ear buds in once again, and began my exit  back to the Condo.

Several hours away was just what I needed. Time alone. Quiet. Relaxing. And a good brisk stroll felt great! I’ve been sitting around and eating a bit too much lately! I’d show you pics, but my camera cord is at home, so that will have to wait.

 Do you ever take the time away from  your  home and family,  simply enjoying  your own company?