can't get there from here.

definition. a phrase said when giving directions in reference to the impossibility of traveling a direct route between certain places. often said when referring to life in northern new england, specifically, the state of vermont.

and if you have ever tried to travel from one side of this state to the other, you know this is true. route numbers replace highways, rumble strips turn to potholes, and the village store is the new rest stop.

some find this to be a burden, and at times, it is. (especially for someone like me who is always running about 15-20 minutes late) but the beauty of not being able to get there from here in any sort of efficient, direct way is that you are forced to wander, to explore, to get lost, to move a little bit slower than you may, under other circumstances wish to travel.

so, i challenge all of you, that on your next drive to slow down. take some time to think the journey...but always keep your eyes peeled for a pot hole in the middle of the road.

"we want to make good time, but for now this is measured with emphasis on good rather than time and when you make that shift in emphasis, the whole approach changes."