Afraid of Open Spaces?

It’s odd, but when you grow up in an urban setting like New York City, wide-open spaces can be a bit unnerving. Now, I’m not talking about a park. Heck, New York has lots of parks. I’m really thinking about the heartland of America. Where the rest stops are few and far between. Where vegetables grow out in the open for everyone to see. Fast forward: Rapid City, South Dakota. The home of Mount Rushmore. Our most recent vacation destination.

Beauty Everywhere!

Years ago, when I worked in healthcare, I traveled throughout the Midwest. Not the hot spots, like Chicago, St. Louis, and Minneapolis. More like Mason City, Sioux City, and Spencer, Iowa. Not many people visit those places. And even though the town folks are hospitable, the sightseeing is a bit limited. But, there’s a good reason why it’s considered God’s country. It gets very dark at night. So dark and quiet, you might find yourself praying. Especially, if you’re like me and find comfort in the presence of other people. Not that I want to socialize. Remember, writers are loners. But, where there are lots of people, there’s safety in numbers. Think of an African Safari. There’s a good reason animals gather in herds!

Rapid City

Welcome to Rapid City. We’re here to visit Mount Rushmore and do all the wonderful things I’ve read about in the guidebooks. Well, actually, I don’t read guidebooks. Jeff does. I just go along and pretend I know what’s going on. Anyhoo – it’s lovely. An assortment of motel chains to fit any budget lies just outside downtown. But wait. The city is only a couple of blocks. Huh? And there are lots of open spaces. Hmm. And the downtown stores are closed on Sunday. A cold chill runs down my spine.

New York City

It’s hard to experience nature’s beauty if you’ve been raised in New York City. Oh, I know. New York is an exciting place. Lots to do. The arts, the theater. And whenever I’m there, I hum Eva Gabor’s lament from Green Acres: “I just adore a penthouse view. Darling, I love you, but give me Park Avenue.” But the problem with New York is that no one can afford the penthouse. Or the townhouse. Or the two-bedroom one-bath apartment. The closest to nature is a visit to Central Park. And let’s be honest. It’s crowded and dirty. The last time I was there, some very gritty people were living under a tree.

My Mantra

So, instead of being freaked out, I will enjoy the views of South Dakota. The rolling hills. The Harley-Davidson motorcycle gangs roaming the highways. They may look dangerous, but I know they’re really dentists and lawyers dressed up in leather and chains on a weekend spree. I’ll watch for cows and horses. There are sure to be a few along the way. And when we reach the park, I’m ready to marvel at Mount Rushmore, even though I’ve seen it up close in the Alfred Hitchcock movie North by Northwest. What do you mean that was a Hollywood set? Ugh. Another illusion shattered.

And Now, for Something a Little Extra!

This month, we’ll be participating in a Personal Essays and a Slice of Life promotion for What’s That Growing in My Sour Cream? If you have a moment, please check it out, and enjoy the rest of your September!