Your friendship is like medicine to my soul.
Every time I go through this process of planning, preparing for, and executing a retreat it is like a birthing of sorts. There are some pains and difficulties along the way but there is so much beauty that emerges from the whole process. It is difficult to capture in words but I love to attempt it each time.
I learn more about myself and grow through this process perhaps just as much as many of the retreat attendees. This time around I was reminded to be truly present, no matter the time, place, person, or experience. I was able to experience the healing balm of loving, supportive women around me. I was reminded how freeing it feels to share all my weirdness in such an accepting environment!
There is a sweet release that happens for so many at these retreats, and (hopefully) hearts that leave feeling lighter yet also full. We practiced so many things this past weekend that can be carried back to “real” life, so that change can continue to crest on the horizon. New bonds were formed and friendships deepened.
One of my favorite moments was watching the joyful faces of the group heading out on a peaceful trail ride at Silver Sage Ranch. This year everyone came to the ranch afterwards for a lakeside bonfire with refreshments and great conversation.
There are too many other beautfiul moments to mention but of course many of mine were in the kitchen. I love planning nourishing meals and had great support in the kitchen (shoutout to JR & Amy!). I’m sharing many of those recipes here.
The barn at Xanadu was once again an incredible space of healing over the weekend. From breath taking sunrises to basking in the moonlight, the barn held us through many hours of nourishing practices.
Of course I couldn’t do any of this without the physical, mental, emotional support of a great team!
Amy was an incredible “bodywork ninja” (I love this term someone threw out over the weekend) and breezed through the kitchen many times to help prep, cook, or clean up a meal. She also shared the most peace-filling sunset paddle with me. I am forever grateful for your steady, encouraging spirit.
JennieRuth kept me laughing and chattering all the way there and back (quite literally with her epic audio messages). She blessed so many of the meals with her loving touch and we got to experience her love & talent for sound & music. Ever sit down and have a friend waiting there to support you? That’s this lady. Your kindness overwhelms me.
Tanya’s loving words and hands (re)connected many to their healing journey this weekend. Her guidance and teaching has been the thread to weave so many of us together, and continues to. She shocks me and makes me laugh when I need it most. Thank you for being my sounding board, encouraging my dreams, & having my back. I’ve got yours my friend.
Lastly, my heart is full of gratitude for all the women who took time from their full lives & schedules to partake in this weekend. You all shared your beautiful hearts & energy and moved through some hard stuff. “If it wasn’t hard it would be a fluffy party.” (JR Warren) I have a special memory of each one of you and will forever feel connected to your sweet spirits.
If you remember one thing may it be~ you already have everything you need to accomplish what it is you were put on this earth to do.
With all my love & gratitude,
Amber