joy and abundance

About a month or so ago I was feeling very overwhelmed with life and felt I needed to take some time for myself. In the past when I felt overwhelmed my first reaction would be run away; well I can't do that as easily as before so I thought of what I could do and that is at least run away for a couple of days closer to home. I searched around for a place to go that was close but far enough away to make it worth it.

I found a cottage in Sonoma on Craigslist and my idea was in motion. Once I made the reservations and put the deposit down I knew I couldn't really go back. That in and of itself was big for me - to go somewhere for 2 nights alone. I felt the weight come off my shoulders just by calling and saying I'll take the 2 nights - charge my credit card. A couple of days went by and I realized that the same weekend I was going to be in Sonoma was also a SARK retreat/workshop. Well if any of you know me you'd know that I am always up for SARK inspiration. It was going to be a great way to meet other creative women that most likely live in the area. So I went ahead and booked the workshop. Again, the overwhelming feelings I was having were minimizing by the second.

So for a month I looked forward to my weekend away ~ I didn't want any expectations but to just go and enjoy myself. I've realized recently that what I really need and want in my life is more joy and fun. I knew that whatever happened over the weekend I was away there would be some kind of joy or fun to be had.

My weekend started at 3pm on Friday when I left work early; the gals at work were so excited and supportive of me having this weekend away that it gave me just the right push out the door. I drove up to Sonoma without much traffic but ended up getting lost when I got close, a minor set back but I ended up finding my little cottage before the sun went down! A super cute little victorian cottage that was just right for me. If you're ever in the Sonoma area I recommend it. Ellen is a gracious host!
Sat morning I got up to the noise of Llamas and horses next door, I went for a morning walk to vineyards and checking out more llamas up the road. Such a peaceful place, the quiet that surrounded hugged me tight. I felt so at peace.

The SARK workshop was so much more than I expected because of the beautiful people that were in attendance. I met such soulful, inspiring women and men that I'm so full. I'm looking forward to the furthered friendships in the coming days, weeks and years.

I must also say that I've been a SARK follower, reader since 1991 so needless to say I've seen and experienced her many many times and each time is such a treat. But this time being much more intimate and special I felt that I was not only touched by the SARK energy but by Susan herself.

The owners of STARWAE where the workshop was held are such special people themselves that if you ever get the chance to take a workshop there you will be treated to great art and scrumptious food and huge hearts.

I'm home safe and sound and full of ideas, love, joy and ready to keep having fun! I was "reminded" that I need to do these things for myself to feed my soul in order to really be present in my every day life on a regular basis. There is so much to learn from just being home with my 2 favorite people.

I end my weekend with a little bit of withdrawl, a full head of information on how to go from here and the abundant feeling of joy and love.

Posted by stef at October 29, 2006 09:24 PM