sixty degrees in newport

I did it. I finally did it.

I went somewhere, and did something, all on my own.

I don't mean went to the store or saw a movie or took a walk by myself, in case that's what you're thinking. (Who is this girl? Who can't do something on their own? Anyone can do something on their own. Pfft.)

Quite honestly, I was extremely wary of going somewhere by myself. It even gave me anxiety trying to think of where to go and what to do and how long to be gone. I put it off for weeks. This, fortunately, reinforced to me how much I really needed to do it. After all, if I can't feel comfortable spending time with myself, how's anyone else going to?

So, I did it. I decided an overnight would be too much (read: I'd be way too scared), so I settled on a day trip. Rachel recommended I see Newport with its cliffs and mansions and beaches. I did some Googling and made the decision an hour later, probably out of a desire to not worry about it anymore. It was only a couple hours away, seemed relaxing enough, and I'd actually never been.

I'm so glad I went. I sat on the beach (there were even people in the water), walked the cliffwalk, took a yoga class, browsed through thrift stores, and dined alone. I hardly even noticed the time.

And I took way too many pictures, too. I quickly realized that being a solo traveler means no pictures of oneself--therefore, I embraced the soloness and set my camera timer. With people around. It was nice, only worrying about myself.

I have this theory that beaches are even more beautiful in the wintertime. Maybe it's because I didn't grow up near any to see them throughout all the seasons, but it's weird to think they even exist when it's not 80 degrees out and they're not covered with umbrellas and sunbathers and sandy children. It's like a woodsy mountain in the summertime. I think I can just better enjoy them for what they're really worth, somehow.

I left that evening feeling happier than I'd been in a very long time, and I was proud to think that it all came about on my own accord. It's nice to treat yourself every now and then; even necessary, I think. I've always been an introvert and enjoyed my alone time, but I can't wait to do something like this again. If you've ever thought about taking a solo vacation, I say DO IT.

Although, if you have an irrational fear driving over bridges over water like I do, Rhode Island may not be your best choice. Yipes.