Backroads

Sometimes I'm actually grateful for the traffic we deal with in the summer out here on the East End. Earlier this week I had to drive to Southampton for a doctor's appointment at 2 in the afternoon. Anyone who lives here knows that's a horrible time to be traveling west and I dreaded the trip, leaving plenty of time and heading toward Sag Harbor to wind my way across Scuttlehole and up to David White's Lane. I knew it would take me longer than a normal trip on 27 with no traffic, but would no doubt be less frustrating - and faster - than traveling Montauk Highway.

From here to Sag Harbor the traffic was heavier than usual but it was moving fine. Once through Sag and onto Scuttlehole traffic was lighter, enough so that as I worked my way up into Water Mill I was able to look around and appreciate the scenery. Surrounded by lush farmland and the occasional stand selling corn and melons, and watching the beautiful blue sky that met the green of the landscape where the horizon undulated in the distance, I found myself smiling and appreciating the place I live. I studied the furrows in the fields, wondering what kind of potatoes were growing in that rich soil and enjoyed the occasional tractor at work. It was a trip to savor rather than dread and I regretted my earlier reluctance.

Sometimes the things closest to us are the most difficult to appreciate because we're so distracted by our lives. It's a sad truth, but one that we can overcome. Taking in and appreciating what's around us is so important. I try to remember that when the traffic is making me crazy. That trip to Southampton helped.