MISSION: Traveling Drop at a Rest Stop

I get nostalgic when I travel. I’ve traveled quite a bit, over this country and others. Traveling opens my eyes and my heart to others. Happy is the best word I can use in how this mission makes me feel.

 

DATE:

June 10, 2011

OPERATIVE:

Affiliated Agent J

LOCATION:

North Carolina Welcome Center on I-26 East

TIME:

6:30 p.m.

 

I was having a rough run of things last month and decided to cheer myself by cheering someone else. So I gave myself a small budget and went to the store for my lunch break. I picked up a few things from the bargain bins, walked around, and tried to find a little something for “everyone” since I wasn’t sure when/where I would leave it, yet. When i got home that afternoon, it hit me! I knew exactly where I could spread some joy!

I spend quite a bit of time driving along a stretch of I-26 where it crosses from Northeast TN into Western North Carolina (think “mountains”), and along that interstate there are rest stops/welcome centers on each side of the state line. So I put everything together with a little note (in a fun tote I picked up, too), and then as I crossed into North Carolina that evening, I paused at the rest stop.

I sneaked the bag inside my own big satchel and went on in. The place was pretty busy (it’s a popular stop with rocking chairs, walking paths, and a nice atmosphere), so I made for the Ladies room. I went into a stall and got ready – pulled the bag out, got my camera ready, and peaked out to decide on where to leave it when i was sure I was the only one in there. I ended up leaving it on a counter at the end of the room – everyone who comes in has an opportunity to see it. I made sure the attached card was visible, and grabbed a photo before ducking back into my stall – such sneakiness is tricky (and fun).

I’m sure that if a parent or child found it, the parent probably cursed me at least once – because who needs a cup-ball in the car with them, or bubbles? But all was fun, and even a parent who has been trapped in a car with their kid for however long can appreciate the joy and fun of it.

The whole thing certainly brightened my day, and I was reminded of how little “cost” can go a long way.

Also, we had some rambling rain showers (happens a lot in these mountains – sort of like a rain forest), and as I drove away from the Welcome Center I saw some great rainbows. I mean, who could NOT love an evening like that?

 

Affiliated Agent J did a great job in in this mission. I am sure many traveling families in need of a break would love to come away from a rest stop with a rejuvenated focus. I know I would! I’m glad this mission also provided you, Agent J, with a rejuvenated spirit. Awesome work!