Never in my life did I ever think that “The Time of No Travel” would ever be in the title of a post on this blog. It seemed strange when it began. It seems even stranger still now. Even more so when I think about the fact that I haven’t been on a plane in over 18 months.
One thing that I’ve struggled with during this pandemic is the feeling as though I’ve lost a part of my identity. Travel is something that I’ve always thought to be an integral part of who I am, my character, my mindset, my goals – and to go over a year without it has, in a sense, made me feel as though I’m missing a piece of myself.
In about two weeks, I’ll be getting on a plane again. First to visit my family, then for business, then to head back to one of my favourite cities in the world. Yes, I’m headed back to London. It’s been too long. Far too long.
When I think about heading back across the Atlantic – it seems strange. Though I’ve spoken about travel to my friends, family and over on my Instagram more times than I can count – I’ve gotten used to my little bubble here in the Midwest.
But I miss it.
Even with my little bubble, as cozy and comforting as it is, I miss travelling. I miss the jetlag, I miss the new foods, new cities and most of all, new people and experiences to share. I love photographing my travels and sharing them with those I love – and I find it inspires my writing endlessly. Which perhaps, is why Monochrome Minimalist has been a little quiet over the course of this last year.
I guess that pegs the question…what next? Monochrome Minimalist for me has always been my way of sharing my passions with the world – and although a bit quiet this year, that will continue to remain. I think this last year has given me reason (and a long time) to think, and it’s provided me with a few new interests and hobbies that previously, I would not have felt that I had the time to cultivate.
This may be a short reflection.
I all honesty, I’ve been meaning to write on this topic for a while – but now with travel so close on my horizon again, I don’t want to jinx it. Perhaps that’s a bit superstitious – but hey, I’ve missed it for far too long, and I am SO excited to have it back again.
I think that previously, I took the ability to get on a plane for granted. I won’t do it again. Now, I am so thankful that I have the ability to jump on a plane if I’d like – see the world, see your country, see your hometown (you’d probably use a car or your feet rather than a plane for that one).
My point is – travel is an integral part of who I am. It always will be – and I can’t wait to begin again.
See you in the skies!
