no wi-fi and no wine-ing
I’m happy with my choice to stay here. It’s somewhat unnerving but also exciting to not have internet service. When was the last time any of us were alone with just our thoughts for hours…or days?!I’m happy with my choice to stay here. It’s somewhat unnerving but also exciting to not have internet service. When was the last time any of us were alone with just our thoughts for hours…or days?! Dinner with an ocean view did not disappoint. Salad topped with crispy salmon, avocado, beets, golden raisins, blueberries, pomegranate seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Warm, fresh-baked bread with butter washed down by a chardonnay…although it’s in a plastic cup, it’s delicious. When I walked over to the restaurant, I realized another failure in my packing. I forgot to bring socks! I can’t take much of a walk or hike without socks, so I stopped in the gift shop, HOPING I’d find some there. My only other option would be to drive back to Cambria, which is 25 miles away. Lucky (?) me… They had one pair! They’re bright pink, with blue flowers and red letters that say, “Dear Wine, Yes.” and they were $15 dollars. They’re ridiculous, but I will get my wear out of them over the next few days. Also, they inspired my first writing prompt on my solo retreat:
No Wine-ing!
I learned something today. Not really something ‘new’, just again. Life throws you curveballs—places obstacles in your perfect plans. But the 10/90 rule always applies! Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you respond.
I’ve been planning this solo retreat for months, anticipating the quiet time to sit down and write without distractions. It’s a retreat designed by the lovely Beth Kempton, author of Wabi Sabi, The Way of the Fearless Writer, and more. She thoughtfully curated videos to download and refer to on your retreat. Writing prompts, yoga practices, sound baths…all the things I knew would make my time extra special. I eagerly downloaded the videos, awaiting the morning I would drive up the coast, sunroof open, music playing, and stopping along the coastal drive to visit the elephant seals near Piedras Blancas Lighthouse.
Ahhhh, how nice that would have been! My best-laid plans flew out the window because I worked late the night before, didn’t pack until the morning, and rushed around hoping I didn’t forget anything. Of course, I left late, drove straight here, heavy with worry that I may have forgotten about a work task, a phone call to make, anything, and everything. I arrived here feeling somehow behind (I’m on my own schedule) and realized the videos are not accessible on my iPad. I kind of thought I’d have some wifi, if spotty even, or at least be able to text. God has another plan for me these next few days, I’m sure. The icing on the cake was forgetting my darn socks! However, this is nothing to whine (wine) about. I’m here. I’m breathing. I’m listening to waves crash, seagulls, and soft music. I’m watching the sun set over an expansive ocean with flames flickering in the fireplace. And yes, savoring a glass of wine.
*excerpt from April’s journal / June 2025 / Ragged Point Inn
