The Gift of the Wait: Reclaiming Ferry Time on Vashon

Ah, the ferry. For those of us who call Vashon Island home, or for those venturing to and from its tranquil shores, the ferry is more than just a mode of transport – it's a rhythm of life. And let's be honest, sometimes that rhythm includes a bit of a pause. A queue. A wait.

It's easy to fall into the trap of viewing this time as a burden, a frustrating interruption to our schedules. We tap our fingers on the steering wheel, sigh at the seemingly slow progress, and mentally run through our to-do lists, feeling the minutes slip away.

But what if we shifted our perspective? What if we embraced the ferry wait, not as an obstacle, but as a unique opportunity carved out of our busy days? Here on Vashon, life tends to move at a slightly different pace, and perhaps the ferry line is just another gentle nudge to slow down and appreciate the moment.

Think of it – you're essentially captive in a beautiful location, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Puget Sound. Instead of letting frustration bubble, why not actively choose to use this time constructively, or simply allow yourself to be?

Here are a few ideas to transform your ferry wait from a tedious delay into a pocket of potential:

Engage Your Mind:

 * Dive into a Book: Remember that novel that's been gathering dust on your nightstand? The ferry line is the perfect excuse to finally crack it open and lose yourself in another world. The gentle rocking of the car can even enhance the reading experience!

 * Learn Something New: Download a language learning app, listen to a podcast on a topic that interests you, or even work through a few lessons of that online course you signed up for ages ago.

 * Unleash Your Inner Musician: Keep a portable instrument like a ukulele in your car. Those waiting minutes can become impromptu practice sessions. Imagine the satisfaction of finally mastering a chord or two!

 * Journal Your Thoughts: Use the quiet time to reflect, jot down your goals, or simply let your thoughts flow onto paper. It's a great way to clear your head before arriving at your destination.

Connect with Your Surroundings:

 * Breathe in the Beauty: Roll down your windows and take a deep breath of that fresh, salty island air. Notice the way the light dances on the water, the calls of the gulls overhead, the scent of the evergreens. It's a sensory experience that can instantly ground you.

 * People Watch (Discreetly!): Observe the diverse mix of people heading to and from the island. You might see fellow islanders catching up, tourists gazing in wonder, or commuters lost in their own thoughts. It's a little slice of life unfolding before you.

 * Appreciate the View: Depending on the ferry terminal, you might have stunning views of the Sound, the Olympic Mountains, or the surrounding islands. Take a moment to truly appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Embrace the Stillness:

 * Practice Mindfulness: Use the quiet moments for a brief meditation or mindfulness exercise. Focus on your breath, notice the sensations in your body, and let go of any racing thoughts.

 * Simply Be: Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is nothing at all. Allow yourself to just sit, relax, and let your mind wander. This downtime can be surprisingly restorative.

The ferry wait is an inherent part of the Vashon experience. Instead of fighting it, let's reframe it. Let's see it as a little pause button in our often-hectic lives, a chance to engage our minds, connect with our surroundings, or simply enjoy a moment of stillness. So next time you find yourself in the ferry line, take a deep breath, roll down your window, and ask yourself: how can I make this moment a gift? You might be surprised by the possibilities.