28 April 2004
Alone Time
I love being with people, but I also need a lot of time alone. I think it's similar to the need for sleep, for dreaming, for the brain to sort its thoughts without the influence of external stimuli. After too much time with other people, even my very favorite people, I feel fatigued and cranky, and my coping mechanisms break down. My sanity requires regular periods of solitude.
Sonic usually travels by car or boat after a particularly harrowing flight left her terrified of flying. But lately she's overcoming that trauma, and today we flew from Kauai to the Big Island. With a little help from a hypnotist, some prescription anti-anxiety pills, and a beer, she flew bravely. It was even fun!
But by the time we arrived at her sister Sue's house in Waikoloa Village, I knew I needed to escape. I was inexplicably sulky and close to tears. Sue's delicious bacon, cheese, and spinach quiche soothed me, but I was still feeling restless.
I took the rental car and split for Kona, determined to locate the only cineplex on this side of the island. I love wandering around unfamiliar places alone, finding my way. When I finally found the cineplex, the only show worth seeing was Kill Bill Vol. 2. I'd seen it already, but I was psyched to see it again. It's a movie-lover's movie, especially if you like movies about women kicking ass and taking names.
So, not much happened today, but I got a little fix of solitude and I'm ready to resume socializing, sulk-free. Yay!
Unlike Sonic's house, the Internet connection here is a little complicated—some kind of AOL-over-satellite setup. I'm writing this on my little mobile phone. So, pictures may not be posted promptly. Patience, nice reader!