There's something about waking up in the countryside. It's so unlike the city. Obviously. I'll be the first to admit that I don't like mornings. I don't feel like I can function before noon. I don't like getting up until the early afternoon and I don't like being bothered when I first wake up. I sound like a grouch, right? I know. The country side does things to a person. It changed me while being here. I'm not talking drastic changes. They may be temporary, but it sure has been nice.
On my first morning here I woke up at 7: 30 a.m. I thought it might just be because I am happy to be here. Then it became a daily thing. As soon as I woke up, I'd go take care of my hygiene. Then head straight for the kitchen to make my favorite Orange Blossom tea from Tazo. Every morning consisted of birds chirping about their day and small insects going about their daily routines.
During my stay in Napanoch Valley I had a lot of fun. There were barbecues, fireworks, picnics, and so much family time. I even went to the beach! I'm sad to say that I've not been to a beach in years and I finally got to go this summer. I didn't know I knew how to swim until that day. I also got a tan and I'm loving it.
Another round of special moments came during Independence Day weekend. A family member of mine has a friend who owns a fireworks company. They did the fireworks for the Fourth of July in Kingston. We got to sit behind the scenes and see all the action. Best Fourth of July EVER. Not to mention we had our own fireworks the night before and I got to play with sparklers. I felt like a kid in a candy store for the most part.
At some point, we drove up the Hudson Valley. The view from the lookout is beyond beautiful. Whenever I am there, I always take a moment of silence to be thankful for all that I am and all that I have. I feel blessed.
The most important events of this trip happened to be two of my sister's graduations. One is off to college in the fall and I am so proud of her for all her accomplishments. The other is off to high school and the last one of the bunch. I am extremely proud of her as well.
Apart from all of the fun, life in the countryside is completely peaceful. I do have to go back home soon. I really do miss home. I will miss waking up in the mornings feeling serenity all around me. I even had minor thoughts about actually staying here. Of course I can't. I have school and work.
Don't get me wrong. I love New York City. I love how everything is constantly moving and things don't really stay the same. It's just nice to take a step back from all the chaos once in a while and take a breath.
Now every time I return to Napanoch Valley, I will look forward to this view.
