I began this blog in early August shortly after the beginning of my vacation. I was adjusting to having free time and resisting the temptation to carry my iphone and check my email a few times an hour. My first blog entry was a description of disappointment. I love riding my bike and I was scared to use it since I am now wobbly on it and had fallen while making a sharp left turn. When I brought the bike in for service the bike store owner looked at me, looked at my racing bike and said, “Maybe the bike is no longer for you.” I had been thinking the same thought. Maybe I needed thicker tires, a more upright position or a tricycle? Oh no, I’m not ready for that, I thought. I passed through this crisis, my bike stem was moved which shortened my reach to brakes and gears making me feel safer. I rode less, letting go of my daily ride to the beach because the road to it had traffic and chose the bike trail near where we were staying. It wasn’t the same but no tricycle for me yet: Gratitude.

I adjusted to a slower rhythm. I got up early, took the dog to the beach and walked with my husband David and Zeke, our dog, along the beach. After walking we then went to the fish store and ogled the freshness of the fish and chose what to make for supper. Sometimes I’d go to a nearby farm and get fresh bread and eggs: heaven!!! Croissants were good too. We’d then go back to our rental house and have an early lunch. The afternoon was leisurely, we’d often read and go to another beach. I’d stare for hours at the water, so much so that I became inspired and began painting with the acrylic paints that I’d been carrying but had been too timid to use. I painted ocean and waves and beach. It was so absorbing that my writing this blog was suspended.

I’m home now and I look at my paintings as inspiration to continue to be spacious and creative—and continue painting. Soon I’ll be observing the trees and sky here in central Mass. As the leaves change color I’ll be painting blues and greens with the addition of some reds and yellows. Our home is peaceful and I still sit quietly and walk each day but I am busier. I’m continuing to guide meditations both for Brown’s Mindfulness Center and the Center for Mindfulness and Compassion. If interested check the events on my website for information on registering to attend (free). I’ve begun teaching another mindfulness-based stress reduction course which is always meaningful. I feel very fortunate that work and play enhance each other and are helpful in remembering to pause and know that every moment is precious and appreciate the changes that place, weather, and mind/body bring.

I’m continuing to guide meditations both for Brown’s Mindfulness Center and the Center for Mindfulness and Compassion. If interested visit my home page for information on registering to attend (free). I’ve begun teaching another mindfulness-based stress reduction course which is always meaningful. I feel very fortunate that work and play enhance each other and are helpful in remembering to pause and know that every moment is precious and appreciate the changes that place, weather, and mind/body bring.