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One sign of a restful holiday or vacation is the pace at which we return home, especially if we love the home to which we are returning.
The pace at which I found myself keeping as I left for my holiday to Portland and then to the Oregon Coast this past weekend, while not harried, was quick and time conscious. Not necessarily because I was late, although I did have a scheduled rendezvous with a friend, but more so because the momentum of my daily schedule had not yet slowed down.
Conversely, when I stepped into my car yesterday morning after an hour-long walk on the beach with the boys (see images and videos in my "breathing space" IG Stories - linked below) and popping into the local bakery to purchase a hot tea and almond croissant, there was not a hurry in my being, rather a soft smile and a calm mind behind the wheel. The cruise control was set
comfortably, but on the slow side; cars would pass from time to time, but with new episodes of my favorite podcasts to listen to as well as my classical music playlist, I was simply in my own little blissful, relaxed bubble, and adhered to my steady speed.
It did not occur to me the significant difference in my pace coming home as opposed to leaving home until I was about three hours into my drive with another 90 minutes to go, and I realized then that this shift was a very good sign.
While we can never predict how our holidays/vacations will unfold, we can be thoughtful about the choices and schedule we make, as well as keeping in mind previous trips and what worked and what did not to calm our minds and beings.
In the past, it has been extremely hard to return home from trips as where I was returning home to never felt truly as though they was my "home". That has since changed with my move to Bend, so it means even more to me when I am in no rush home even though I love pulling into my driveway.
However you design your getaways, give yourself buffers, especially at the end, but in the beginning as well. Buffers may be a few days of rest at home before you have to return to your regular work schedule or a few days before to prep your home so you can return to a clean and welcoming abode. As well, travel when you know you will be rested and alert, prepare the travel accoutrements that
make you feel most comfortable, if you are traveling by car, be sure to clean it thoroughly before the long trip, and treat yourself to something lovely to do or eat before you leave. Lastly, have a delicous meal ready to enjoy with either the grocery items in the fridge waiting for you, picking up a few things on your way home or pick up a favorite to-go order to bring home with you so you can fully relax after unpacking.
Whether you too are in the middle or wrapping up a holiday break or looking forward to enjoying one in the near future, my wish for you is that your pace upon returning be leisurely and find you with a smile unconsciously displayed.
In this week's newsletter, you will find a full slate of posts to enjoy. From a favorite French-inspired podcast episode (all-new updated shopping links to update your French Capsule Wardrobe!), my latest segment on AM Northwest, a This & That that is bursting with items of note, a Monday Motivational post and the new regular monthly post - 13 Things That Made Me Smile This Month, So Far
. . . . With that said, I will wrap up my letter and let you enjoy!
And don't forget to stop by the blog on Monday, April 1st, as TSLL's annual Spring Shopping Guide will be posted (you will receive an email as well with a direct link as a subscriber to the weekly newsletter). Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and until next Friday, I'll see you on the
blog.
