Pre-Trip Adventure
I returned late last night from a long weekend at Eastern Point Retreat House in Glouchester, MA, at the very southern tip of Cape Ann, which is an hour north of Boston. It really is like being at the edge of the world there, and was just the place and space I needed to visit for some quiet time and reflection before the big trip. I was lucky enough to see the most gorgeous sunset ever when I arrived on Friday, as well as experience the intense fury of the ocean during a winter storm as I prepared to leave yesterday morning. The grounds and surrounding area are simply spectacular. This is my favorite shot, read the caption to see why.
The ride up on Friday was awesome — no traffic, four hours listening to my favorite tunes while enjoying the scenery. The weekend Nor’easter made the return trip a bit more challenging — it took almost seven hours, traveling at 35-40 miles an hour for much of it. Let’s just say I won’t miss driving for the next few months!
But it was all completely worth it — to be able to spend time in reflection and silence at such an amazing place. I am especially grateful to my brother Mike who told me about this unique Jesuit retreat experience, and to the small community of fellow Jesuit alums I met this weekend. I’m also very thankful for my safe return to New York — it was absolutely frightening for a bit — but the strength and insight I gathered on the retreat helped to keep me calm and peaceful as I traveled. It’s a feeling I hope to carry with me as I board the plane to Portugal on Wed., and for the duration of my journey…this one, and many others to follow.
Tags: Europe 2006, Tag Index
Kel
February 13th, 2006 at 2:10 pm
Kel, I’ve just realized how close your departure is getting ….. I will email you tonight. Pretty sure the trip to Praugue is on – the link I sent you has the dates and the name of the Hotel (it is just off the old town square – sounds like a good spot – Trip Advisor had several reviews of the hotel and they were quite positive) I hope we can hook up – that would be so much fun.
February 14th, 2006 at 8:00 pm
Oh my God you’re leaving tomorrow!!! I am so excited for you. I will be reading your blog religiously to keep up with your adventures and I know you won’t let me down 🙂 Take it all in, be safe, and eat lots of yummy food!!
February 15th, 2006 at 12:24 pm
Hi Kelly–it’s your long-lost researcher friend from Iowa! Love your blog–hopefully I’ll be keeping up with your travels as you go. I am so excited for you–and, can I be so bold?–inspired? Your sense of adventure expands my focus beyond the daily grind of donor profiles, daycare schedules and poopy diapers. Ha, ha. God’s blessings on your travels.