Drive Up

I’ve never been much of a fan of long drives but to me they are a special part of any vacation. The trip there is almost as good as being there. It’s the anticipation of where you are going, the scenery on the way and music or talk show you listen to that can make the long drive seem not so long.

This weekend we drove up to Bay City for a family reunion and ball game. While the ball game got rained out and I had to leave early due to one of the kids having an ear ache we had a great time the next day with family at the park then more fun times at the hotel. The weather was perfect with a slight breeze and enough sunshine so you felt warm at times but not too hot, perfect family reunion weather really. The drive up seemed long though I think mostly because I wasn’t exactly sure how far up we were heading.

As a kid I remember the long road trips with my dad or uncle going north to Traverse City or Ludington and at the time I hated the long drive. Listening to “These Eyes” so many times as the 8-track in my dads Pacer cycled from that and ABBA’s greatest hits I knew all the songs well. Even then the 8-track system was outdated as was the car but I liked the hard loud click the player made when you switched songs. My brother and I got along best at those times too, each picking a song or waiting so that we could pick a new tape then every 30 minutes asking if we were close yet.  I wonder what my own kids think about the drive up?

Today on the way home it felt like time flew by. Being in my truck with my whole family together was a good feeling even if we didn’t talk. We listened to This American Life. Actually we listened to two shows each being one hour. Once home I knew the kids would go out and play, I’d go upstairs or in the family room to watch television or read something online. Everyone would be in a different place but that’s the way it goes. It’s good to be home but I kind of miss the drive up and back.