jakorte's blog

Saturday, March 22, 2008

We were still in Tennessee when I received the first message about the Michigan snow fall. Estimates ranged from 6 inches to 2.5 feet of snow would fall by the time our GITC caravan made it to Ohio. As the day progressed, it became clear that getting from the Dundee drop-off point to my home about 40 minutes away, was looking doubtful. Partly, because of the snow, and partly because of an unexpected twist. The friend who was supposed to pick me up called to say that my driveway was under 3 foot drifts of unplowed snow, and that she was no longer planning on picking me up because she had made plans to attend a party.

Knowing I was going home to any empty house was already stressful enough, but to not be able to make it home for such trivial reasons angered me. After a few more calls, and some tears, I found a hotel in Dundee where I could spend the night at my own expense.

Then, the more I thought about it, the less upset I became. I’m not usually one to go looking for silver linings. I’m usually busy trying to figure out if the silver lining could possibly turn into a rain cloud. Then, I invest in preparing for that possibility by packing extra shoes, socks, and an umbrella. For some reason, though, I started to view the stay-over as a sort of intermediate stage; a decompression opportunity. I wouldn’t have to be alone at home just yet. I could ease myself into being without the group. I could relax, take a long shower, watch TV and not feel driven to unpack or start laundry.

Because there was a bit of a commotion before checking in – 3 travel vehicles, 12 hugs and finding my luggage – we drew the attention of the desk clerk. After talking for a while, explaining who we were, she noticed my room assignment was near an elevator. “That won’t do," she said. You need some sleep!" I realize I usually look a little tired anyway, but apparently I looked a little more so than usual.

So, after she moved my room to a quieter location, she offered me hot tea and freshly baked cookies. I indulged, enjoyed a lovely bath, watched some mindless tv, and eventually climbed into cool, clean sheets on an actual bed. Delightful stuff.

jak