"I need to write, and I need quiet. It's important to me."
Eight years ago, I mustered up the courage to say those words to my husband. It was uncomfortable, it felt selfish, and it was overdue.
I presented the reasons why I needed a creative retreat, and that I had to go alone. My giver's heart was nervous to ask. It felt wrong in many ways. But, I've learned over the years that it's important to receive as well as give. And ain't nobody gonna pour into me better than I can for myself.
He agreed. Bless that man. And I booked a trip to Sanibel Island. Alone.
Every year since then, I uphold that same promise. I remind myself that I am worthy, and it's healthy to get away for a bit.
Retreat. Recharge. Rejuvenate.
Sometimes it's a week in Florida, other times it's over night nearby. No matter what, I make it happen.
I planned an overnight trip to Chincoteague a few weeks ago. At the last minute, I decided to spend the extra $90 on myself to book another night's stay. I think long and hard about those decisions because that's how I operate. I'm a wife and mother, first and foremost. But those are also the very reasons why it's important that I refuel.
I always make sure the family has plenty of snacks, they know my itinerary and that they can call me any time. I may not answer right away, but they can always reach out.
And then - I'm off!
As soon as I hit the Eastern Shore, I had so many creative downloads. It's instant for me. And it happens every time I start driving to my destination. There's a freedom that comes with being on your own schedule. And that freedom makes my creativity bloom.
When I reach the island, I find some iced tea and enjoy the largest chocolate croissant I've ever had. It was amazing!
I hit up the bike rental (because I don't wanna deal with a broken bike again) and ask for a basket on front. You know, because I have to put my iced tea somewhere, and my coffee, and my shelling bag.
Then, to the beach I go. And every time I travel alone...
time stands still.
It's beautiful.
Yes, my daughter texted me twenty times because she wanted to negotiate her grades and her social plans. And yes, my husband texted me about it too.
But, in between all that, life was still. And calm. And, oh so lovely.
It didn't hurt that my phone was about to die, and I made that very clear to them.
I took my sweet ol' time beachcombing.
I talked to the park rangers about my new-found orange oyster shell (it's caused from sandstone, and this one is particularly old. You can tell by the size and lines).
Dinner was when I wanted it, I jotted notes when I felt inspired, and I snuggled in the hotel bed when I needed to slow it down.
I may or may not have snuck onto private property to look for mini shells. And that property may or may not have been the land that I shelled at when I was a child.
I know that solo travel isn't for everyone. But I hope you do something special for yourself that recharges you; mind, body and soul.
One of my ideas is to offer creative wellness retreats for women. We paint together, enjoy nature, move our bodies and eat chocolate croissants! Pinatas may be involved, and that's all I'm going to say.
Who knows - I get a lot of big ideas. But what I do understand is that hustle and grind has it's place, but it's not sustainable.
And you deserve sustainability. Most importantly, you have to slow down in order to rev-up.
Take the trip!
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