What I have learned living on Cape Cod

For many of us New Englanders, Cape Cod is our oasis and happy place. I was a summer kid—I grew up visiting my nana and aunt & uncle’s homes each summer. To me, the Cape always meant the best, uninterrupted quality time with my family. My cousins, sisters, and I would spend the day at the beach, then plop down on my grandma’s front lawn and play the “car game”. We would each choose a car color and earn a point every time our color drove by. After that, one of us would probably beg to be driven to Smuggler’s for ice cream.

Today, I have had the privilege of living here for almost three years—for one summer with my grandma, and now at home with my parents year-round. I like to consider myself a “washashore”, the term people use for those who didn’t grow up on Cape, but have chosen to call it home. On the Cape, I have worked in a marina, in a shop on Chatham Main Street, and now as a writer, as well as an assistant at an interior design company.

I have learned a LOT about life and myself from my time here. These shores mean the world to me, and I now grasp the Cape’s extraordinary, true character. I’d like to share my little stories and lessons with you. Whether you are a Cape Codder, frequent vacationer, or have yet to visit, I hope these tidbits bring some light to you. At the very least, I hope this post is a nice distraction amidst your day.

My story starts in the summer of 2017. After finishing my sophomore year of college, I was back in my hometown and craving an adventure. I had always dreamed of working a summer season on the Cape. I called my dream place of work, a harbor cruise, and asked if they were hiring, which they were. My nana graciously agreed to house me. I didn’t know a soul, but was welcomed into this work family with warm, open arms. After graduating college, I came back to the Cape to pursue my writing dreams at Cape Cod Life Publications.

Here is what I have learned while living on Cape Cod:

1. Take the time to ask people thoughtful questions and learn.

Working in a marina for the harbor cruise, my favorite person quickly became our daily visitor, the 80-year-old retired harbormaster and local legend. With him came his sweet golden retriever. He brought me the Boston Globe every day, would sit next to my desk on a little yellow couch, and sip his cup of tea. I asked to hear his crazy stories, asked for music suggestions, and enjoyed getting to know him. The endless visitors and my coworkers each taught me something new. Ask questions to those around you. It continuously opens my eyes to how small my own life is and teaches me new ideas to keep with me.

Here I am with the golden puppy (and the little yellow couch).

2. Quiet time brings new perspective.

With most of my friends in the Boston area, I have a lot of time to myself on the Cape. I have learned to see my quiet time here as a gift. Life is busy. Having quiet time forces me to slow down and soul-search. I have to reflect on what is troubling me and work through it. I get to think about my values and where I see myself in the future. I challenge you to see quiet time as an opportunity to reflect, especially right now.

3. There is always a new place to walk and explore.

My older sister lived here alone for her first job after college. She inspired me to take advantage of all there is to explore. If I’m feeling down, I drive to White Crest Beach in Wellfleet and go for a long walk. Walking always clears my mind. Listen to music if that’s your thing. There are few better feelings than having an entire beach to yourself in the off season to stroll. Not near the ocean? Find a trail or a pretty town nearby to explore. I think it will do you good!

4. Dedicate yourself to your passion.

The hardest working, most innovative people I have witnessed live here on the Cape. As a writer at Cape Cod Life Publications, I’ve gotten to chat with artists, builders, chefs, fishermen and photographers. I am blown away by their work ethic and dedication to their craft. The Cape attracts those not afraid to do their own thing. These folks put in countless hours to make their dream happen and don’t complain. As a frequent restaurant visitor, local shopper, and admirer of the beautiful homes here, I now have a deep appreciation for the work that goes on behind the scenes to run the show. I’m so inspired to create my own dreams because of these people.

This is my favorite artist I’ve discovered on the Cape, she makes these beautiful boards with resin! @ej.artistry

5. The people make Cape Cod what it is.

I’m tearing up writing this because this place and these people are so special. The care I have seen from Cape residents for their communities is incredible. Young and old locals work to give back and preserve this place for generations to come. If you live in a small community, I hope you recognize its warmth and love. If you live in a big city, I hope you appreciate its buzzing culture and have found your own spaces that feel cozy.

I hope you can let out a deep breath every time you cross the bridge to the Cape. I hope you appreciate the distinct aspects about where you live. I think its worthy to reflect on. What do you love about where you live? What do you take for granted? What have you learned from your experiences there?

I would love to hear your thoughts or any ideas this might have brought to your mind!