I woke up to that familiar, painful feeling of waiting all night to pee. Water drops lay on the tent fly, visible from the inside. A light rain fell last night, unnoticeable in a deep sleep. The wind is still sleeping as I walk to the bathroom, then the kitchen. I eat dry cereal, drink steaming coffee, and scramble a couple bright yellow eggs. Lighting the gas stove is always a thrill, as a micro explosion engulfs my hand.
We walk down the single lane road until a friend picks us up. The market is chaotic and fun. I am missing my girlfriend Amy, and I suppose that is what this post is about, methods Amy and I use to maintain our relationship when we are apart…
Travel to EPC from Climbing House on Vimeo.
A buddy recently asked me “How is Amy okay with you traveling so much?” I think I responded something like “I guess I’m just lucky.” While this is true, there are a few things we’ve been doing to lessen the burden of distance:
1. Daily cards or “Love Notes” if you will. I’ve made a habit of writing Amy a short note for every day I’m away. This has been a good way for us to connect daily, and sitting down for an hour to write notes really makes you realized the length of a trip.
2. Regular communication. Damn, the world is SO connected. I usually call or email Amy once a day, in the evening. There are only a handful of places I frequent (Castle Valley for one) that don’t have email or cell coverage close at hand. Here in Mexico, we’re using gmail chat and email to keep in touch.
3. Understanding. Here’s a little excerpt from an email Amy wrote me:
“It will be magic to be with you again. It’s been good to miss you, in a lot of ways. I’m ready for you to come back. I wish it were soon, but I know this adventure is good for your soul, heart and mind, in ways that couldn’t be fulfilled without the journey you are taking. There is nothing in this world quite like traveling. I’m so proud of you.”
How do you get understanding? I don’t know, but am so thankful to have it. If you would like to share a tip you have, post up in the comments.
Down a gravel road, this hacienda sits, surrounded by cactus
She’s a keeper. I suppose she might feel the same way about you.
You’re both very fortunate that you are each willing to put in the time to remind the other of their meaning to you.
Reading about your journeys is an amazing tonic for some of us reading, too, man. Keep ‘em coming!
Eli, you are so sweet and thoughtful. Amy is just as lucky to have you and I know she misses you lots! See you soon, roomie!