"Are you are still going?" is what everyone asked me two weeks ago as I got ready to leave for Italy.

Yes, I still went. And you know what? It was incredible. A miracle really, and I had thought that I had already had my share of miracles. That week alone my dear sister-in-law was on life support for a heart attack and the hubs tested positive for Covid. They are both FINE now. But I really could not believe I was going until my feet were on the plane with a face mask securely in place.

This was the 7th retreat I have hosted at the beautiful setting of Locanda Delia Quercia Calante, located equidistant between Rome and Florence in the Umbria countryside. Described as “eco-friendly country retreat encompassing a culture that adheres to the values required for well-being of the body and spirit" -- put simply it is heaven on earth.

From a book on the way over, I learned that there are 3 different stories that make up a trip. There is the story of the planning - the countless Excel spreadsheets and emails. Then there is the actual trip - your physical self-having an experience. And the third is your memories of the trip - what you allow to make an impact. Ultimately you have a choice when someone asks you "How was your trip?" What is the story you tell?

The planning of the trip was a colossal pain in the ass. We were forced to cancel our retreat in 2020 and that lead to countless emails and refunds. The worry this year that we would not be able to go again this year. AND convincing people to come with us once we did decide to go! Then the E.U. recommending closing the borders to American tourists the week we were due to leave. I had plenty of moments where I thought, "This is it.... I am not doing this again."

Then actually being there. It took me more time than usual to settle in. But after the first (or second) Aperol Spritz, the pesto and burrata pizza, the sound of espresso cups and saucers in Rome, the Umbrian sunshine, the smile on our hosts Laura's face when we arrived at the farm I found my groove. The retreat itself was seamless. Every student who trusted and came with us was amazing and the group gelled like it always does with some time for yoga, some time for exploring, and amazing food. I am so grateful.

The story I choose to tell is not the long ass flight and the unexpeced wait at the airport, or the big blister on my toe from walking all over Rome, or the early bus departure at 6am to get to the airport and 24 hrs of travel homebound. What I will remember and what I will share is how much I want to share this experience with as many people as possible: the light on the farm, the food, the people, the way of life, the peace. Our dear chef Maurizio from Alma Civita said to me, "Share what you are passionate about with those that you love."

Next year is already set. September 10-15th 2022. Click below and use the code EARLYBIRD for $250 off and plan NOW to come with me. I am that passionate about it.

xoxo

JK