My Solo Work Trip to Ottawa
Growth, Green Peas & Getting There
I’ve always said I hate change… but I love growth. And sometimes, growth looks like driving five and a half hours solo on the Trans Canada Highway to a work conference in a city you’ve never been to as an adult (many times as a kid with my parents) — with a mix of nerves, nausea, and hope.
Spoiler: I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.
The Drive That Gave Me Life (and a Sunburn)
Let’s start with the journey — because honestly, it might have been my favorite part. Winding through the forest, windows down, sun filtering through the trees, and that clean, earthy smell of fresh air hugging me the whole way. The rivers, the lakes, the peaceful stillness between towns — it was soul-soothing in the most unexpected way.
I drove the whole way there and back by myself. Just me, my thoughts, and my playlist. And even though I got burnt to a crisp (left arm only, thanks sun), I felt wildly free. My AC hasn’t worked in years (no shame), so I literally bought a cup of ice on the way home just to press against my arm and survive the heat. Classic me. Classic adventure.
The Hotel: Purple, Peaceful, and Full of Surprises
I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Ottawa, and let me tell you — purple everywhere. It was like the hotel knew my favorite colour and decorated just for me. From the sleek gym to the cozy pool and the prettiest little restaurant downstairs, it felt like a step into grown-up work travel life.
And now... the infamous smashed peas story. My manager ordered fish and chips and was expecting coleslaw on the side (as one reasonably would). Instead? A mysterious green mush appeared. Wasabi? Avocado? Nope. SMASHED PEAS. 😳
Yes, you read that right. Smashed. Peas. It was both horrifying and hilarious. Safe to say, we laughed way too hard — and that moment instantly became one of the top memories of the trip. And believe it or not, most of the other funniest moments were food-related too. IYKYK.
Sleepless in Ottawa
Here’s the part that wasn’t so glamorous: I barely slept. Like… 6 hours total over 3 nights kind of barely. My body was not having it — dizziness, nausea, hot flashes, headaches. The kind of “I miss my bed so much it hurts” vibes.
But despite the physical exhaustion, I still got up each morning, walked to Starbucks (always taking a new route to explore more of the city), and showed up for each conference session. There was something calming about those walks — seeing Parliament, the courthouse, and a little fountain tucked around the corner from my hotel. Quiet moments in a busy place.
The Conference: Connections Over Comfort
The sessions were eye-opening. While not everything directly applied to my day-to-day, I loved getting insight into what happens on the ground at the school level. I don’t usually interact with students in my role, so hearing those experiences gave me a new perspective — and a deeper respect for what others do.
Even better? I met people. Really incredible people. Including some higher-ups in the Ministry of Finance. (!!) Doors started opening right before my eyes — doors I didn’t even know existed. It felt surreal… and affirming.
Reflections from the Road
By the last day, I was exhausted. I still have no clue how I made the drive home feeling the way I did, sunburn and all. But I did — and I made it safely.
What I’ve taken from this trip is this:
Pack smarter. More business casual, fewer everyday casual clothes.
Prioritize sleep. Next time, I’m bringing whatever I need to help me actually rest (sleeping pills? Weed gummies? Don’t judge lol).
Let yourself enjoy it. I was so caught up in feeling unwell that I missed out on fully enjoying the experience.
But here’s the most important takeaway: I’m proud of myself.
I went. I showed up. I pushed past the anxiety that usually stops me — and I’m better for it. I feel more confident, more open, and more excited for whatever (and wherever) is next. Whether it’s another conference, a solo road trip, or something totally unexpected — I’m ready.
Because growth and change? They’re scary. But they’re also everything!
xoxo
Your Mindful Anxiety Bestie
