breathe peace: July 2010

There is no one "right" way to do vacation. I know that. Since I was in charge of the recent trip to The Caribe I chose my right way. Right this time anyway. That meant as far from the resorts, chain hotels and cruise ship ports as possible.

My first trip journal entry: "I have no expectations. My cup is empty".

It took 2 travel days to get to Sago Cottage on the mountain top, yes the tip top of St. John V.I. above Coral Bay. On the first day there I wondered if I might have swung a little too far away from life's comforts.

I loved this experience. Really. I feel like I experienced life here with every one of my senses. I had good conversation with local folks, saw their home through their eyes. Always my favorite part. Westin Resort, you can have your private, groomed (yes, they rake the sand) beach with your 50 lined up white beach chairs where every guest has a matching blue and white striped towel. I will keep my outdoor shower, lizard on the window sill, hilltop perch any day.

Thank you Janeen Anderson for your part. I shared my vision with her. She got it. I picked the place. She made the connections and did so many little extras that enhanced this experience. I would not have known about the island of Tortola. What a spectacular addition! I seriously cried when it was time to leave the ocean there.

Wheels are already turning. How can I spend 4 weeks there next year? Somehow I will. I've picked the villa where I want to stay and have some ideas for streamlining the travel part. I know better what to pack and what to leave. (Leave the socks! Can you believe we packed socks!) I'll prepare a little earlier too. I was buying clothes for myself at the SLC airport. Thank you nice lady that found just what I needed, in a hurry!

Sooo. . . you've been asking for pictures. I promised myself NOT to post any sunsets, ocean or palm tree pics. With 3 cameras there's a lot to choose from. Here's what I loved, mostly shot spontaneously with the iPhone camera!