We met at 9:00 am for breakfast. By now, Rog and Gretchen had already completed a 2-mile walk as they were up early and on a mission to find some items at the market.
Unfortunately the restaurant in the hotel was unable to prep any food because of an issue with the gas in the kitchen. So, we headed toward town to find something to eat. Adema’s grabbed a meat pie from a local shop, one of the only stores open this Sunday morning. Otherwise the stores were mostly boarded up and closed for the Sabbath. Meanwhile the streets were crowded with cars and the sound of hymn-singing could be heard.
We ended up visiting Moe’s, the local grocery store, and got some items for a continental breakfast - charcuterie, fruit, muffins, with chocolate milk. We brought it back to the hotel courtyard and enjoyed our final few hours together. Thankfully, the restaurant was still able to serve coffee!
As we discussed the highlights from the week and how difficult it might be to return to our typical routines, we wondered... what memories will stand out later this week? What images will come to mind when we reflect in a few years? What moments will we cherish most as we grow old?
A little before 11:00 am, we packed up and checked out of our rooms. Adema’s headed out for the airport and the rest of us waited a few more hours before leaving that spot in the courtyard.
The flights were pretty smooth for all of us. A few delays along the way but by 11:00p we were all safe at home.
Its a beautiful thing to travel, to learn and grow and to return home a changed person.
I’ve never experienced a trip like this one. I felt a deeper level of relaxation than I knew was possible. I honestly could just take in the beauty all around and experience the emotion and gratitude I felt.
The trip certainly exceeded any expectations that I had. But what makes it so extra special is sharing it with people that we love. Each and every unique personality onboard contributed to the special week that it was and I am forever grateful for those smiles, those laughs, that love!
For me, our time together was Heavenly.
