Open mode?

Since Dr. Specht discussed being in the open mode to allow creativity to flow, it made me remember when I used to take a personal day to enjoy art, music, books, or just driving around.  I would try to get all my errands, work, or anything that was not fun done beforehand so I would have extra time to myself.  I know that we discussed the over-use of cell phones in class and how they interfere with the open mode, but I had to keep mine on in case my mom or grandma needed me for anything.  And, periodically, I would call my grandmother, who I lived with at the time, to let her know I was ok and coming home soon.  She worried about me an awful lot.

What I enjoyed the most about those times was that I could take the worries out of my mind because, usually, there was nothing that needed my urgent attention.  I missed driving around and getting excited when a good song would come on the radio, and that strange, brief "high" that hearing a song that you like gives you. 

One of my frequent stops was Munson-Williams Proctor Institute, especially during fall.  I liked to walk to the Fountain Elms and see all the different-colored leaves in the courtyard.  I'd take a bunch of pictures if I happened to remember my camera.  I'd browse in the gift shop or just pick a random piece of artwork and stare at it for a (seemingly) long time.  And, usually before leaving the gallery, I'd look at "The Voyage of Life", because every time I look at it, it's like I'm seeing it for the first time.  It never gets old.

And after that, I'd go over to the Utica Public Library.  Now, the library is where I have difficulty keeping in the open mode because I usually look for books that I'm interested in.  I love their children's book section. I also enjoy skimming through books about religion and spirituality, but most of all, I enjoy looking at books about animals, especially my favorite animal, the grizzly bear.  I developed an interest in grizzlies after I saw this picture in my science book:

I mean, look at them!  It's a mother bear with her three cubs, posing for a photo just as a human family would!  I have since looked at several pictures of grizzly bears online, and their behavior continues to interest me on many levels. 

Am I engaging in the open mode if I'm thoroughly enjoying something, even if it isn't new to me, or should I put it aside and leave room for something that I know very little about?