Mini-Musings from a Mini-Sabbatical

I wanted to share 5 of-the-moment reflections from my time away. Would love to hear what comes up for you, and thanks for reading...

1. I’m good with less stuff. Packing for a two-month getaway means bringing more things than one might need. If you’re me, anyway, and you want to be prepared! Even then, it’s still way less things than exist at home base.

2. Nature is a miracle. And humbling. A highlight: looking down upon a tree canopy, and considering all the life supported there, took my breath away. My own insignificance had a moment, too. (Shoutout to Myakka State Park)

3. It’s been nice not to think about my hair.  Usually it’s cut every four weeks. I like it short, and more than a tad fastidious about all that. And, ball caps are a wondrous thing (photo just to make the point!)

4. Thought I’d have more time to read. And, what a joy to encounter a book that sings, and hurts, and to savor the notes such that just bits can be read at a time. The Friend is that book for me (by Sigrid Nunez). Unsparing. Helps that I’m dog-obsessed, and curious about loneliness, and grief. And, what is love anyway?

5. The beginning was really hard. It took three weeks not to feel out of sorts. In my brain it kind of made sense – new place and space, pressure to produce, etc. – but in my heart and tummy, it swirled. And, I was pretty unkind to myself around all of it. Lots still to process there, as the cliche goes. Grateful for (virtual) therapy, and my Leslie.

Wondering if and how all the above will travel back home with me. 

Until then, I wish you respite from the cold.

Warm thoughts your way!