Can We Stay Forever?

It's Monday, and I'm feelin' fine.

Getting back into the groove after a vacation is hard for me. I get "re-entry burns" and "reverse culture shock." That's probably oxymoron-ish but it really is true for me. Spending time away from home on a fun trip, wherever it may be, always brings me delight and joy... fulfillment and pleasure.

The benefits of time away with loved ones and friends are essential to my survival. I thrive on time away. I relish the anticipation of a trip...its euphoria, unpredictability and distraction from the routine.

While time away feels so good, and in spite of the quick switch to reality when I return, I do always long to "return."

Returning is important

Home truly is where my heart resides...

The welcoming arches in the foyer

The "smell" of home

Hugs from my family

Scout leaping on my chest

My cozy bed and pillows

Lighted candles

Warm lights on dimmers

The familiar is very important to the gift of getting away. I see significance in wanting to come home...even though I often say while on vacation, "Can we just stay here forever?"

Removing myself from daily responsibilities, chores, errands, the routine is refreshing. I need the change of pace. I crave the beauty of the destination, but I always long for the completeness of coming home...

...even if it does take me a couple of days to readjust to life...

The adjustment of return is just as important and significant as is the gift of the trip--both give life, renew my being, set me up to be a better woman, wife, mom, daughter, friend.

As I stand here in my kitchen this morning and look around at all of the familiar accoutrements--pictures, paintings, blankets, spaces, knick knacks--stars & hearts & crosses & reminders over the mantle --

~ "Franklin" {home}

~ "Grateful" {heart}

~ "Be Still" {mantra}

~ "I Know the Plans" {promise}

~ "Be a Light {purpose}

I am washed in a flood of gratitude

Thank you, home