Island Time

Beaufort, like any other small coastal town, runs at its own slow pace. The relaxed atmosphere and the laid-back residents have somehow created an environment where time is just a pesky concept, and not something that needs to be taken seriously.  The garbage that was supposed to be picked up Monday is still there on Wednesday morning? No worries, they'll get to it eventually. Oh, you're waiting for me to make you that latte you ordered? Well just hold on a few minutes until I finish my conversation and I'll be right with you. In the meantime, look at the pretty jewelry! That bracelet would look perfect with your medium non-fat vanilla...

Having lived in several coastal communities, and even on an island in northern British Columbia this summer, I thought I understood the concept of 'Island Time'.  In the past, I've been relatively immune to it. Strict schedules and frequent visits to the outside world ensured that I ran at a relatively productive pace.  But here, in Beaufort, I have been sucked in.

I moved here in mid-August, to a town that (to me) embodies all things vacation. White sand beaches? Check. Crystal blue ocean? Check. Small towns with cute main streets to wander down? Check.  All these 'checks' have confused my psyche somewhat, and now I can't seem to get out of vacation mode!  Sure, I have classes. And assignments. And MP work. But I also have morning walks to the coffee shop with my dog, afternoon walks on the beach, and profs that teach in hawaiin shirts (sometimes barefoot). I have sunsets over the ocean, runs in the rain, and friendly chats with people I'm beginning to recognize around town.

I have a procrastination problem... which just keeps getting worse.

I woke up this morning, looked at my calendar, and realized I've been here two months. Two Whole Months. I'm halfway through the term, I've already had my first round of midterms and labs, and fall break is already over. In less than two months I will be home for Christmas. My hair has suddenly gotten two inches longer. I actually wore a SWEATER to class yesterday! Where has the time gone?

Suddenly, the concept of time is starting to come back to me. I have deadlines that need to be met, data that needs to be entered and analaysed, and blog updates that need to be written.  I've decided it's time to strap on my watch, flip my calendar to the right month, and rejoin the rest of the world.

But that doesn't mean I'm going to give up my morning coffee runs or afternoon walks on the beach!

My dog Koda during an afternoon walk on Atlantic Beach