It's not uncommon for crazy ideas to pop into my head. This time next week I'll be in Vienna (a trip I officially booked earlier this week). While I've been talking about going for a couple years now, a chance encounter planted the seed in my head again, and I asked myself, why am I waiting?
Vienna is where my mom studied abroad in the 60s, and I've still never been. As her birthday quickly approaches, it only seemed appropriate to turn it into a pilgrimage of sorts. Armed with her study abroad journal and old letters she sent her parents, I'll do my best to recreate my own version of her experience.
I fully expect a lot has changed since her time, so I don't know just how much I'll uncover, but it seemed like a good excuse to go to a new place. (I even reached out to one of her closest friends who she met studying abroad for more ideas.) In the spirit of "what would mom do?," I'm taking the train—despite the 10 hour ride— just because it seems like what she would have done.
I shared my mom mom's journal on Instagram awhile back. Now I'll get to make sense of clues inside.
Here's some more inspiration for the week:
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Watch.
In one of my all time favorite movies, "Before Sunrise", Ethan Hawke and Julie Delphy's characters meet on a train and discover they have a connection. He convinces her to get off with him in Vienna where the two walk and talk as they explore the city. It's a different kind of romance, young and carefree, and it all takes place in less than 24 hours. I will of course be finding some sites in the movie while in Vienna.
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Read.
I've listened to Adam Grant on podcasts—including his own—for awhile now, but recently I decided it was time to finally read one of his books. It wasn't until I saw the subhead of Originals that reads "how non-conformists change the world" that I knew this was the book I needed to read right now. It will be my book accompanying me on my journey.
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Listen.
While my mom would not have had a personal listening device to accompany her on her long travels (she even took a ship across the ocean!!), that doesn't keep me from creating a playlist inspired by what she may have been listening to in 1962. (Ideas for songs welcome!!)
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Because cities change in 50+ years, and I'm traveling alone, I'm open to any and all Vienna tips! (The more old school, the better.) My main plan is to wander for hours and sit in cafés. I can't wait!
Also, have you ever gone on your own pilgrimage around a person, place, or thing? I always love finding inspiration from others, and believe pilgrimages need not be far. How did let a "crazy idea" inform your trip?
P.S. I know it can feel weird to respond to a newsletter, but rest assured, it always makes my day when I hear from you.
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Anne S. Ditmeyer is a creative coach + consultant who helps people think creatively in their work and life. Click here to learn how you can work with her.
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