Re-Entry with Renewed Perspective

Blarney Tower from the Castle above

One of the things I was hoping to get on our big adventure was a perspective adjustment. Traveling can encourage that. This journey helped me to step back, live in the present moment as the unknown unfolds, and be open to a new view. 

Sean O'Brien took this photo of me at Blarney Castle

This trip involved so many transitions and connections, that we had to live in the present moment, often without internet connection. I was able to take a break from my virtual life for awhile.

Carrying my luggage at one of many train stations we visited

Our Scotland-Ireland-England adventure was one that Keith and I dreamed about taking and planned a long time for. It had numerous transitions, places, and people to experience. My life is richer because of it.

Now is the time to re-enter our familiar life. We've "hit the ground running" so to speak. It wasn't a surprise. Schedules were filled before we left with: a family reunion, wedding, Art meeting for upcoming show, babysitting my grandson etc.  Even so, I don't want to neglect the reflection of, "What am I taking away, or rather, bringing home, from this trip?"

Sean, Merri and I at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin

The number 1 thing is GRATITUDE. I feel intensely thankful. Keith and I have been married 35 years and are more in love than ever. Of course I am grateful to have been able to take a journey like that in the first place. I loved meeting with old and new friends, and traveling with our daughter and son-in-law was the best time I could have hoped for. I am coming home so grateful for the extraordinary people and life I have.

Keith and I still in love after 35 years of marriage - BLESSED

Sean, Merri, Keith photo bombing my photo of the entry into Trinity College in Dublin

Here are my funny photo bombers doing their thing as I am taking a photo of yet another doorway....

To read about our Daughter and Son-in-Love's travels visit: http://atravelingtwo.blogspot.com/

our room key on the island of Iona - the number 4 is Dalet in Hebrew which means "Door" 

Keys and doors have been the symbols for me this year. I have been continually looking for "keys" that open good things.

The Oregon Open Studios, Washington County Artists on October 18-19th from 11 am - 5 pm, seemed like the perfect opportunity to invite you to participate in the "Door of Gratitude" and discover a key of your own. In addition, there will still be prints, cards, and artwork available for purchase, and of course the famous cookies some are counting on, but now you get to participate even more! I am excited and hope to connect with you!

Photo by Heidi Helser Photography©

Coming up next: a journey through some of the highlights of our journey through art journaling

Blogstravel journaling, Washington County Artists Open Studios3 Comments