We drove up to Matlock from Watlington, winding our way through the bustling English roads. It quickly became clear that driving here requires your full attention. The roads are narrow and busy, and you have to stay on guard all the time, no zoning out or cruising on autopilot.

Driving in a foreign country always comes with a bit of tension. It’s unfamiliar terrain, literally and figuratively. The signs are different, the rules slightly altered, and the rhythm of the road is not what you’re used to. It can feel stressful at first, like trying to dance to a beat that’s just a little off from your own. But as with any change, large or small, you find yourself adjusting. You have to. You adapt.

A few miles into the journey, I could feel my mind shifting into what I now call “England driving mode.” Suddenly, miles made more sense than kilometers. I started to anticipate the roundabouts and navigate intersections that, just minutes earlier, had seemed chaotic. The roads, though tight and unfamiliar, became manageable.

It’s funny how quickly we can reprogram ourselves when we need to. That thought struck me as we drove: isn’t this the same process we go through with any new experience? Whether it’s a job, a relationship, a move, or even a mindset, the first moments are filled with uncertainty. But if we plan ahead, stay alert, and keep an open mind, we begin to find our rhythm. It’s not about erasing the stress, it’s about leaning into the change and trusting that we’ll find our way.

The key, I’ve realized, is to embrace it. Don’t fear the unknown; meet it with curiosity. This trip has reminded me of that in the simplest, most practical way.

Now that we’ve settled into the journey, we’re really enjoying it, especially the beauty of a hot English summer. The skies are clear, the countryside is glowing, and the roads, once intimidating, now feel almost familiar. I find myself far more relaxed behind the wheel than I was at the start.

Of course, no road is perfect. Yes, they have potholes here too. But I’ll say this with pride: we still win. Ours are bigger and better.