Tag Archives: Heart

Life, Travel

A golden opportunity

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For years I’ve dreamed about experiencing the Golden Door. Rated as the World’s Most Iconic spa by Conde Nast (article below), is certainly appealing and note-worthy, though I knew there was much more behind “the door” even beyond their noteworthy and very prestigious ranking. It took an unfortunate tragedy in my life to lead me to this golden property, for which I further understand what a magical chance this was to finally check in at the Golden Door.

This is, by no means, just a place to go and be pampered- though fear not- you will be pampered…til you can’t be pampered no more. Though the real beauty about this place is so much more than the pristine grounds and architecture, The Golden Door offers some of the best classes and treatments a gal could ask for. The Door is, simply put, transformational. In one day, I went on a 5 mile sunrise hike, had a massage, got a pedicure, had a full hour reiki private session, learned Fencing, took a meditation class, attended a sound bath and called it a night. I mean seriously? This is how we should live each and every day. (clearly I’m still basking in the golden glow of this place)

Just before the holidays I lost my best friend in the world-my one and only sibling, my brother. His passing was not only sudden it was a complete and utter heartbreak. I shut down- not eating, not sleeping, and completely dehydrated unless you count endless caffeine, so I guess you could say I was past dehydration, if you want to be real about it. Needless to say the grieving was taking quite a toll on me-body, mind and soul. Fortunately, I knew that if I was to continue on in this life without him I needed to find a way back to me. Back to life. Find a way, a reason to go on without him.

This lead me down the freeway to a small town in North County San Diego, to the Golden Door. I checked in on December 30th for 4 nights of checking out, to check in. And that’s exactly what I did- I checked IN. It was time to rest, relax, cry, grieve and write to get it all out. I have for so long eagerly awaited my chance to come to this beautiful retreat away yet at this time I was overwhelmed with such grief and thus filled with anxiety about what this experience would be. How could I possibly grieve around 30 random women I’ve never met before? As I had been in hiding since his passing, unable to talk to even those I love the most In my life. I truly was shut down and checked out.

To my surprise, It was as if the magic began the moment I stepped through the doors. From the breathtaking awe inspiring grounds, to the thoughtful detail that went into everything for my stay. Fully customized just for little ol’ moi. I’ve never in my life been so cared for and felt so supported. And this was just from Golden Door and its staff. The most beautiful gift was In the company I kept. Every. single. Woman. was amazing- truly phenomenal women. It’s as if we were bonded in sisterhood day one. Never have I shared such intimate vulnerable, emotionally provoking connection with women of all ages in my life. We all quickly came to realize that we all had our own lives at homes and challenges in life that came with it. And we were here to celebrate, grieve and honor one another-strangers or not, it didn’t matter. In fact, that amazing gift of holding space for one another was remarkable. Exactly what I needed to bear witness to- the beautiful gift of humanity and an authentic connection. To hug, to show love and support for someone you just met. I have never felt so supported in my life. I know this is precisely what I was asking for following the loss of my brother, as I had lost faith and hope in this world. I must say with complete gratitude that thankfully the Golden Door offered me the golden opportunity of a lifetime to connect, to heal and to commune with loving, kind souls who I will forever appreciate.

Thank you Golden Door for helping to heal this broken heart of mine and for the beautiful community of women who happened upon one another to enjoy this life together. I am forever grateful.

To explore your own transformative, golden experience- Check out what’s behind that beautiful door.
https://goldendoor.com

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/the-golden-door-is-the-worlds-most-iconic-spa


Life, Travel

a Gringa in Havana

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My love for Latin culture runs deep.  The irony is I have no idea why.  I grew up with German roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and yet a salsa song comes on and you’d think I’m busy celebrating my very own Quincenara.  I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy many incredible adventures to Latin countries- from Colombia to Costa Rica and now to Cuba.  I’ve wanted to go to Cuba for so many years I’ve lost count.  When Obama opened up travel, I was thrilled for the chance to finally learn more about this country, it’s people, arts and music and get the Real Real on this country.

Needless to say, I was a bit…..hmmm, how shall we say, oddly surprised?

I know my expectations might be slightly off- The spirits of Buena Vista Social Club Streets playing throughout the streets, while couples dance Salsa with reckless abandon.  Instead, it was more like streets ripped apart, riddled with trash, clearly uncared for, for decades.  This country has endured a lifetime of entrapment, not only NOT moving forward….not staying as-is either, as nature still manages to take its course in dilapidating and further breaking down not only the land, but also the former captivating architecture that Havana is so known for.  This stunning beautiful buildings crumbling all around.  And not just in the outer areas- the inner cities that welcome tourists.  It is not hidden, as may be the case in other cities. People residing in buildings that have no windows, floors consisting solely of rubble.  Trees growing out from where the foundation used to be.

Inspired and stunning architecture still remains within the soul of this city.  Even if most of the buildings appear to be blown out- as if a war had taken its toll.  Though in reality, most of these buildings being owned by the government and unfortunately not upkept by its residents has turned this great potential into a sad reality.

As you walk the streets you can feel the pain this city has endured.  From the many years of revolution and take over from other countries.  This is not a city to be taken lightly.  For it’s people have incredible heart and determination.  Not to mention loyalty.  To my surprise everywhere I turned was either the image of Che or a memorial of sorts for their recently lost Fidel.  I’ve never been to a communist country before this excursion and I was apparently a bit surprised to learn, experience and bear witness to life within.  And yet with all of this said, this place is still hopeful.  The locals offer smiles beyond the struggle.  With the spirit and soul to believe that one day Cuba can truly be Cuba Libre.

Life

Insatiable desire for Adventure….

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Being raised in simpleton Amish Country, I always knew there was more to life out there than simply living my entire existence in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.   And as soon as I got my drivers license, I was out adventuring.  Always!  I would literally drive four hours just to go to the beach for a day, only to turn around and return that night, yet another four hours.  I’d take road trips to anywhere I could go to ensure I was home at night.  After all, I was still a teenager, driving around some rather large and sometimes a bit sketchy cities  (Philly, DC, Baltimore) solo!   Though this for me, was only the beginning of my exploration.

I’m not sure if it’s due to the fact that I was from Amish country or for the fact that I had a grandfather that traveled the globe continually for his career.   As we always had National Geographics and unique momentos from some of the most obscure places across the world, throughout our house.  Either way, I knew that I was being  driven to experience the world for as long as I can recall.

During college, I had the opportunity to study abroad- in Plymouth, England.  Upon my return, it was quite apparent that Lancaster (although I am quite thankful for my upbringing there) was no longer serving me.  So, off I went- packed up my Volkswagen Cabrio and headed to the West Coast.  Landed in Newport Beach and was floored by all the beauty and abundance that surrounded me.  After 7 lovely years, I decided to change it up once again and headed south to San Diego in hopes of setting some permanent roots for me to call “home!”

San Diego, although superb, tends to be one of the most transient towns, certainly on the west coast.  From its military presence,  to the limited larger corporations, this gorgeous place I still call home, may be more of a layover for life for me. There is something very special about San Diego. That small town feel of a place that offers 70 miles of spectacular (and unique) beaches and a locale that’s so beautiful you dream to make it your own.

Though for now, it was time, yet again, to venture out into the world to experience new cultures, new people and in hopes of further learning a new….and ohhhh so beautiful language, French.  Although I certainly miss San Diego, especially  during these summer months, I trust that this was a calling for me to come and experience something new.  And thus far, Paris has certainly not disappointed.

So today I begin, another adventure, within this foreign place, in hopes of creating yet another location I can call “home.”  Because as they say, Home is Where the Heart is…and for now, my heart is here and happy.