Two Minutes Du Jour

Sometimes, the best moments are the ones we don’t see coming. That’s how I’d describe reconnecting with Margaret—a kindred spirit whose friendship has become a true gift.

We have a small-world connection: Back in the ’70s, Margaret’s family and my husband’s family were neighbors. Decades later, our paths crossed through PRSA and LinkedIn, but it wasn’t until Two Minutes Du Jour that we truly connected and found that we are kindred spirits.

A few weeks ago, Margaret visited me for a walk along the Mississippi River. Yesterday, I drove to her rural town, about 50 miles away, for tea, homemade blueberry muffins, and an energizing 5-mile walk. We bonded over books, blogs, podcasts, homes (hers is newly built, mine is being remodeled), travel, family, and food. Our shared love of cookbooks led to recipe ideas, while our discussions on cabinets and area rugs brought laughter and camaraderie.

Recently, Margaret launched her blog, Silverish Simplicity, a delightful space to explore timeless and rewarding simplicity. (Check it out and I think you’ll see some delightful yet distinct parallels between our content!)

While the time together was restorative and energizing, the drive itself was surprisingly enjoyable. Instead of the freeway, I took the back roads, winding through small lakes, fields, and towns I’d never seen before. Margaret later directed me to a new route home, equally scenic. Slowing down to 30 mph in small towns, listening to music, and noticing the landscape was a reminder of what we miss when we rush through life.

That tiny trip, off the beaten path, was the perfect prelude to the weekend. By the time I got home, I felt refreshed and ready to ease into the evening. It made me think about how often we default to the same routes—both in life and on the road—and miss opportunities for discovery, reflection, and connection.

Margaret’s visit, her blog, and our shared back-road adventure remind us of the value of reconnecting with people, veering off the usual path, and making space for moments that truly nourish the soul. If there’s someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with, why not set a date? Better yet, if there’s someone you know but don’t know well, make time to get better acquainted – I’m so grateful Margaret reached out when I launched Two Minutes Du Jour, because now we are truly friends.

Take the back roads, savor the journey, and see what unfolds.

Two Links Du Jour:

Silverish Simplicity – a place to share light and variable thoughts and ideas on timeless and rewarding simplicity.

How to Take Back Roads when you Travel – seeking authentic travel experiences, one back road at a time.