Day 67

I woke up to my alarm, the sky still dark, and forced myself into a semblance of functionality. Today was Car Repair Day. I expected that the Corolla needed new front struts and rear brakes, so I soldiered through a maze of tough traffic and one-way turns to get to the auto shop in Durango. I dropped off the keys, grabbed my backpack, and set out for a day on the town.

Durango is a mid-sized town; I’d guess around 15,000 people. It holds a special place in my heart as the setting of Durango Kids, a truly terrible straight-to-TV movie that Zack and I used to watch constantly. I was unable to find it online and watch it today, which was a true bummer. Instead, I walked down to the Durango Diner, which was mentioned in the Food Bible. My breakfast was fine—maybe even pretty good. But the atmosphere was the best I’ve experienced in a diner. The employees clearly liked their jobs, each other, and their customers. I felt unbothered but welcome, free to participate as much as I want. I appreciate that in a public space: the choice to engage.

I paid the bill and walked through the gorgeous autumn morning to the library. I set up shop and worked on my smattering of projects, including lyric-writing, puzzle-solving, and book-reading. When I needed a change, I switched to a nearby coffee shop. There was a piano, but the room was filled with customers. I didn’t want to intrude. I did, however, realize that this is the longest I’ve gone without touching a piano since sixth grade. Just like riding a bike, I hope.

I killed the last hour or so by walking some of Durango’s surprisingly scenic park trails. A middle school group passed by, presumably on a field trip. I missed my old job in that moment. I was also thoroughly confident that I made the right decision to challenge myself this year. 

It turned out that my car was in much better shape than I thought. The struts weren’t leaking, and my brakes will likely last me until the end of the trip. I planned to drive out of town today, but we may get snow overnight, so I’m staying at the Durango Home Depot parking lot. Don’t worry, it’s legal.