change of plans

Just me, a venti caramel macchiato, an itunes playlist to die for, and the open road. It was the perfect plan for my road trip to South Carolina.

It's been almost 2 years since I've seen my best friend from college, Jana. Although we only live 4 hours apart, it seems the business of our lives always gets in the way. A few months ago we picked a date, and I made it clear that this time I would be the one making the trip. I haven't had 4 hours in the car by myself since, well, college. Just the thought of watching the sun rise through the fall foliage, my favorite music playing in the background, and no children (or husband, for that matter) made me happy. Not to mention the fact that one of my favorite friends in the world was waiting for me at the end of the road.

My alarm went off at 5:45am. I hopped out of bed, got dressed, loaded the car, and grabbed my phone. I looked down to see "1 New Text Message."  It was from Jana. "Good morning. Call me before you leave." Of course by now I was completely awake, dressed in my cute outfit (and killer new boots), and was anticipating my giant cup of Starbucks. The minute I saw the text I knew we would be rescheduling. Once again, something had gotten in our way.

Jana's dog had been in an accident last night, and as a result her hip was dislocated. She and her husband had spent all night in the Vet ER, and she was unsure what the outcome would be. The surgery was unsuccessful last night, and they were going to try round 2 today. My heart broke for her as her voice trembled over the phone. She and I made the mutual decision that a rain date would be best. After all, the conditions weren't exactly prime for a fun and lighthearted visit.

So now, as I watch the sun rise through the trees of my backyard I can't help but think...maybe I should get out of here before everyone wakes up. No one would have to know...I could hit the open road anyway and see where it leads me for the day. And then I hear it. The sweet voice of my three year old. "Mommy?"  She is waiting for me at the bottom of the staircase. Her warm hug makes my heart smile and I immediately know. I'm not going anywhere. Except, maybe, to Starbucks.