Road Trips and Lots of Bull
Let me take you back to one of the most unforgettable summers I’ve ever experienced as a military spouse and mom, even though technically, I wasn’t either. It all began during my husband’s deployment when I was presented with an unexpected opportunity for solo exploration. With the kids safely nestled with their grandparents, I could embark on a journey that would redefine the meaning of freedom and exploration for me. Let’s call it my military mom’s summer vacation, aka, that one summer I had no kids or husband.
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- Road Trips and Lots of Bull
- The Sweet Taste of Independence
- The Best Summer Ever Begins
- Road Tripping Through Germany’s Charms
- A European Adventure with Friends
- Solitude Amidst Spectacle: Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls
- Summer Vacation Essentials for Military Spouses
- Gratitude for the Journey
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The Sweet Taste of Independence
As summer approaches, I find myself reminiscing about one of the most cherished memories of my life. Summer vacations offer military spouses a much-needed break.
I love my husband and my kids, but I took my boys to their grandparents on Friday, and I was back in Germany by Sunday evening. Both flights cost me zero dollars because I used the Air Force service called Space Available, lovingly referred to as Space-A. Boarding the Space-A flight back to Germany, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement fluttering in my stomach. The anticipation tingled on my skin as the plane soared through the clouds, carrying me toward a summer filled with endless possibilities. It was a taste of independence—sweet and exhilarating—as I realized the world was mine to explore. Many military spouses dream of exotic summer vacations. And I was about to live the dream.
The Best Summer Ever Begins
I opened the front door to our apartment and listened to the silence. I almost cried, but not because I had already missed them. However, I forgot to make them clean their rooms. I checked for food and shut the doors. It’s their problem, not mine.
I stripped down to my underwear and planted myself on the sofa. I can’t tell you what I did the next few days– it was a blur. A pleasant, quiet, do exactly what I wanted to do kinda blur.
A week later, I cleaned their rooms. Then I realized I had barely scratched the surface. I could experience so much more during this time. With all of Germany and Europe at my feet, I felt excitement. I was eager to delve deeper into my summer bucket list.
Adventures were waiting to be embraced, experiences waiting to unfold. I yearned to embark on road trips across the scenic landscapes of Germany. wanted to meander along winding roads with lush greenery, charming villages, and Rieslings. And beyond Germany’s borders, I dreamt of witnessing the exhilarating spectacle of the bulls running in Pamplona, Spain, with friends. I envisioned late nights filled with sangria and flamenco. Sometimes your dreams come true, sometimes they don’t. But let’s mash the gas. I’m getting a little ahead of the story.
Road Tripping Through Germany’s Charms
I’m not sure if you’ve ever been to Baumholder. It’s a quaint little town we affectionately call ‘The Rock.’ It gained notoriety as Hitler’s training camp because the weather there was always exaggerated. You’d glance out the window and expect a miserable day. Yet, once you descended the hill, it felt as if the heavens had parted, revealing blue skies and warm sunshine.
With the open road stretching out before me, I embarked on a journey through the heart of Germany. The air was alive with the scent of wildflowers and freshly cut grass, and the sunlight filtered through the lush green canopy overhead. I went to museums, stopped to take pictures, and never had to stop to pee on the side of the road. Each quaint small town I visited was a symphony of sights and sounds—the gentle chiming of church bells, the laughter of other people’s children playing in cobblestone streets, the aroma of hearty German cuisine wafting from bustling cafes. and the strong coffee, pulling me in like a puppet’s string.
A European Adventure with Friends
Joined by three adventurous girlfriends, also military moms on vacation. I set out on a road trip to Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. The thrill of camaraderie infused each moment with joy as we navigated winding roads and discovered hidden gems along the way. The taste of traditional dishes danced on our tongues, and the vibrant colors of market stalls painted a picture of culture and tradition. We had so much fun that we wanted to extend the trip by a day or two. But one of, who shall be nameless, was not as free as the rest of us, so we had to return.
Solitude Amidst Spectacle: Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls
But not all adventures were shared. My friends bailed on me at the last minute. However, I wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to witness the running of the bulls in Pamplona. Ultimately, I was undeterred by the prospect of going solo. Despite my friends’ last-minute betrayal, I left on the journey alone. Suddenly, I embraced the thrill of the unknown and the exhilaration of experiencing this iconic event firsthand.
As thundering hooves and scrambling footsteps echoed through the narrow streets, adrenaline surged through me. It was 8:00 a.m., a moment of pure exhilaration amidst the festive chaos. By 8:05, it was all over. There I was, witnessing it firsthand, sangria in hand— the one I had dreamt about.
Festival Dates:
The Running of the Bulls, also known as the San Fermín Festival, takes place annually from July 7th to July 14th in Pamplona, Spain.
For more detailed information on the Running of the Bulls and the San Fermín Festival, you can visit the official website at sanfermin.com. This site provides a comprehensive guide to the event, including schedules, tips for visitors, and historical context.
Summer Vacation Essentials for Military Spouses
The plan was simple:
- Pursue Personal Hobbies: Engage in activities like journaling or reading..
- Travel: Explore new and exciting destinations.
- Wellness: Treat yourself to spa days and wellness activities.
Amidst travel, I cherished quiet solitude in cozy cafes or under ancient trees, losing myself in books and journaling. The aroma of the coffee, the scent of ink, and the rustle of pages provided a soothing backdrop to bustling city life.
I found solace in the company of some of my favorite German wines, their rich flavors dancing on my palate as I savored each sip. Days stretched languidly as I whiled away hours in cafes with views of the Rhine and Mosel rivers, their tranquil waters reflecting the beauty of the surrounding vineyards. With pen in hand and paper before me, I felt a sense of creative inspiration stirring within—a well-deserved alchemy born from the union of solitude and nothing to do.
Gratitude for the Journey
As the summer drew to a close, I felt grateful for the experiences that had shaped me. This military spouse’s summer vacation helped me identify the things I needed to make time for going forward.
Each moment had left an indelible mark on my soul, a testament to the transformative power of travel and the boundless possibilities that await those brave enough to embark on the journey. Every day, I returned home, heart overflowing with memories and lessons learned, I knew that the spirit of adventure would forever burn brightly within me. Even though my kids were gone, I felt the intensity I could only imagine was childhood wonder, a reminder that the magic of exploration knows no age. I’m pretty sure that summer made me a better mom. But even if it didn’t, I’m okay with that, too.
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