“Come without a map. Explore… and draw your own map.”  ~Stephen King

Dear Universe,

On Sunday I had the chance to do a little island exploring.

Into the car I went with two fellow writers, each of us bringing cameras and an open mind.

As we drove through the windy roads we took in the beautiful Vineyard landscapes—lush green fields, trees aching to fully bloom, water all around.

We stopped periodically.  A general store that carried nostalgia—a bookshelf of metal toys my brothers and I had as children, old fashioned individually wrapped candies, all trinkets and treats from another time—was a delight.  We purchased drinks and snacks for the car, like we had road-tripped together before.

We made our way to Gay Head where the wind whipped my hair this way and that—despite my attempt to have it pulled back in a tight ponytail.  At times I thought the wind might whisk me away, but that’s just when it would cease for a minute, allowing me to secure my footing once more.

The view of the red brick lighthouse (the first lighthouse on Martha’s Vineyard), cascading cliffs, rocky coastline and turquoise waters made the battle with the wind worth it.  I stood feeling like I was in a postcard; it was that picturesque.  Some shops were open selling souvenirs and tiny treasures.

From there we made our way to Menemsha, the fishing village where parts of the iconic film Jaws were filmed.  Walking on the docks, memories of my childhood and watching the movie with a fearful delight surfaced, the soundtrack sneaking its way into my head.  As I breathed in the fishy, salty air, I made a promise I would watch it again soon.

The afternoon came to an end, each of us feeling ready for a nap—the sea air, sun and wind taking effect.  It was a few hours well spent, the company just as satisfying as the scenery.

Thank you for the balanced day.  I worked, I rested, I explored and made new memories.  I know these are places I’ll visit again.

Here’s hoping for more days like that while I’m here.

Much Gratitude,

A