Acadia National Park & Growth

Happy Saturday, friends!

It’s been a heck of a good time since my last post. A new truck, a few smaller trips, and quality time with old and new friends. Recently, I’ve been taking advantage of the last few warm weeks of fall by going north before the weather becomes too contentious! We left Boiling Springs two weeks ago, traveled up to Southern NY for a very special two-year-old’s birthday, headed to Cape Cod, and ultimately ended up in a place that I’ve wanted to go for quite some time, Acadia National Park. I don’t mean anything against Cape Cod, it was pleasant, but it’s not Maine. 😉

The northernmost state in the continental US has been at the top of my travel list since I concocted this whole “camper life” idea. Northern, rugged, coastal, brisk air, incredible views? What’s not to like!?! Turns out, nothing at all.

Acadia is one of the United States’ most dog-friendly National Parks, as Opey would gladly tell you if he could speak English. I swear, if one more person here tells him how beautiful he is, his head won’t fit through the camper door.

The area around the park is full of two and four-legged-friendly activities, restaurants, and lodging. Unlike many southern campgrounds, I have yet to see any breed restrictions, which is a Godsend for people with a GSD/bully breed/Rottweiler/etc. There is even a FREE public transit system, the Island Explorer, which allows you and your furry friend to travel to most places in the park together.

As far as where to go in Acadia, pick any place and you won’t be disappointed. The only item worth mentioning, there are a few trails not suitable for those of us without opposable thumbs, so it might be best to leave the pooch behind if you’re keen on hiking more treacherous terrain (using your hands, use of ropes, etc.). It likely goes without saying, I hiked no overly treacherous terrain. Opey’s energy level could power a small town, so he is included in every one of my adventures.

Aside from the physical beauty of the area, traveling alone has been absolutely exhilarating. Frankly, I didn’t realize that I was such a people person (though the fine people at Tito’s would like to object). Despite traveling alone numerous times through my life, I never realized how much I was punishing myself throughout the process until now. I used to spend my travel time focusing on my hatred of airports, feeding into my annoyance of slow walkers, or planning a drive as efficiently as possible. I never actually opened myself up to simply enjoying the experience.

Perhaps it’s the anonymity of being a tourist? Possibly the confidence that I can overcome any bumps in the road? Or maybe it’s Maybelline? Either way, this opportunity has allowed me to shine a spotlight on my own inner peace. I’ve started to more frequently enjoy each moment and engage with those around me, even when I may not want to. I’ve encountered people from all over the country (and globe), and I’ve had positive experiences with every single one of them. I’ve learned the stories of people from all walks of life, ages, and mindsets. I’ve been welcomed as a friend by complete strangers. I’ve slowed down and surrendered to the process.

Despite being eternally grateful that I’m able to pursue this path, I am even more appreciative of the lessons learned in such a short amount of time. I’m excited to continue my education through this journey, and I’m very interested to know what I don’t know… yet. 😊

- M&O