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So, I’m still toying with the idea of taking a solo trip to upstate New York for the few days between dropping my son off with his mom and school starting. It’s to get away and do some editing/notebook work in isolation. Sort of. I’m leaning towards a place I’ve been to before and have a few friends that I can see for a bit. Beyond that, I’ll probably stay in the hotel room or find a place in nature to get some work done. This still depends a lot on finances, time, and making sure I can find a room.
My questions for other people:
Have you ever gone on a solo trip to do writing or another craft? Was it helpful or at least relaxing?
I’m asking because I’ve never done a solo trip before. The drive is daunting to begin with, but being all alone gets to me as well. Can’t remember the last time I was ever alone somewhere. Actually, I don’t think I’ve ever willingly done that. So, it’s a brand new experience. Any insight would be helpful.
Legends of Windemere 
No. Do the trip. Let everyone know how it goes… or don’t. 🤷🏼♂️
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It’s more the driving for long distances alone in the car. Never done that before. Hoping I can handle it.
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I’ve gone on solo trips and going on another one soon for that music festival vacation which is 3 hours away from me. However, this is fairly recent in going solo for longer distances to visit somewhere. I haven’t been on a plane by myself until this year when I visited Philadelphia and it was my first time out of the state this decade so far. However, I would like to try a trip where I’m only focused on writing or at the very least doing something creative for multiple days.
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I’ve done 2-3 hours on my own before. This one is going to be closer to 6-6.5. Taking breaks is always weird too. I’ll stop at a McDonalds or a rest stop, but then I’m just a solitary guy hanging around. Makes me feel like I’m being watched.
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Gotcha and that certainly would be a huge trek. I usually take breaks when driving that long. It can feel weird after stopping somewhere where you’re just minding your own business.
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Might finally have to use one of those rest stops designed for texting. No bathroom, but a place to stretch.
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Not a bad idea. Being in a car that long can certainly make someone feel cramped and you wouldn’t have to worry about driving and texting at the same time obviously.
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My only hope is that the weather is good. Driving through downpour would make the situation really bad.
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That’s true. It definitely would not be fun. I saw the weather where I’m going to drive that day might get rainy or have a thunderstorm, but we’ll see.
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Hope the weather is in your favor.
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I love alone time but I’m not you. I think you could do the drive with breaks and then if the room becomes too much just return early. You would certainly be experienced in the long drives for the next time.
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I get the feeling that I’ll have to stay up there for the whole trip if I go. Once I check in, there isn’t a refund option. Guess the real challenge is simply getting up there and back. If the weather is good then I can go out on a walk at times. I’ll be right on the river.
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You may love it.
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Yes, helpful, and yes, relaxing. Check out macdowell.org a retreat for writers and artists. You have to apply, it is very competitive, but you will have everything you need in your own cabin, delivered to you, so you have total seclusion among fellow artists. This year’s winner is Yoko Ono, and I wanted to go to the ceremony but I’m away.
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Wait. Yoko Ono won? Can’t she afford to go away for solitude without a contest. Also, this sounds like I’d be around other people instead of alone.
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She can, but most who go are there for the solitude and immersion in their project. People never have to leave their cabins, which are far apart. Meals are brought to their doorstep. Many choose to walk in their wooded area, and who knows if they come across someone else. Solitude!
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Guess it could be fun. Though it feels a little weird. I do like being able to go out and get food. Maybe see a friend or two for dinner.
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Not weird at all. Solitude all day needs a break, like getting food and maybe seeing a friend.
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Charles, as much as I’d like to encourage you to take the trip, I’m going to say, do a staycation and venture out to places near home. Places that you’ve never been before with your son. Near home so you feel comfortable and less stressed about driving long distances and mingling with strange people. There’s nothing wrong with staying in your comfort zone. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your time off. 📚🎶 Christine
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I won’t have my son during this time. That’s why I was going to take a trip somewhere. We go to places around here all the time. Also, staying here means I’m still around some stressful situations. The one time I did try what you’re suggesting, I got called back home for an emergency that wasn’t an emergency.
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Charles, it sounds as if going on the trip is the best plan. It will be an adventure. Play music in the car, sing along, and get into a good mood about it. It will all work out well. Enjoy the solitude in another setting! 🥳🎶
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Thanks.
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Never done this before – Hubs would want to join in!
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That should still count. I think. Not having a spouse means I’m not sure.
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But then I have to do things with him – no time to THINK!
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Send him out to find his own fun?
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I’ve actually done that! And sometimes wish I’d been with him.
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I’ve not done solo trips. My suggestion for the long drive is to break it into two, and stay overnight somewhere. 6.5 hours driving sounds a nightmare, even as a passenger!
I’ll be interested in how it goes when you return. Be sure to let us know, and take a break from blogging while there. We’ll still be here when you get back.
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I wouldn’t be able to stay overnight with this trip. If I did, I’d get up to the place in time to immediately turn back around and take another two days to get home. When I said ‘few days’, it’s only 4 including the one I drop my son off in the morning. Be nice if I had more, but that’s not an option.
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Ah! Pity that, but I see your problem. Anyway, enjoy your trip.
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I have never done a writing trip. I’ve been here alone for several days at a time, and love that on occasion. I love long drives and have taken some approaching 1000 miles long ago. It’s just me and the Muse and is usually pretty productive. I have to say your traffic is very different than mine. Out here it’s like an Eagles song. Dark desert highway stuff.
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I rarely get the house to myself. It’s not even just about writing, but going away to place I know is restful.
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I can only do things for myself when no one else is home. Boy, that sounds depressing.
I think you should go and enjoy yourself. Take along your notebooks and write if you feel like it, but don’t pressure yourself to perform. Your general health seems like you just need a break and time to relax.
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It’s not fun. Gets really tough when I’m asked why I don’t do things for myself by the people who commandeer my non-parenting time. Writing in my notebooks and editing next to a lake would be relaxing. As long as the weather is good.
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