Mix and match getaway Part 2 of 2

To balance out the city exploration, some quiet time in Ephrata, PA and space to think about the past six months and the next six to come. It felt a bit disconcerting when there were no plans in place but then again, I was there to see my lovely sister whom I missed when I was on my way back from the long travel in Central and South America.

This was a place that I normally come back to when I needed to get away and recuperate after a busy work year. The fresh air, calm and slow pace of life provided the rest that was required to reflect on life. Of course it’s also the presence of my loving sister who is one of the most understanding and down to earth people I know. The best thing is that we can be silly and laugh like two crazy kids, be quiet and solemn when times call for it.

The plan for this visit was to get some space and time to assess life after a year of travel, getting back into a day job and venturing into a transitioning period to create a sustainable life with lots of play in it. The future is daunting to me and the change is significant, enough to make me nervous and start questioning my ability to achieve what I needed to make it happen. Interval introspection is one of the most important tools I use to bring myself back to the state of equilibrium. This is always the moment when I am reminded to be kind to myself.

And since I was in the States and so near to West Virginia, an attempt to see Michael is a must and the cherry on top will be to have a climb day with him. It was one fine sunny day when we got out to Seneca Rocks, a beautiful area teeming with climbing routes. I told Michael about my horrid experiences with exposure and my need to get better at dealing with it, and he made sure that I get to deal with it on this trip. There were a few terrifying moments but because Michael is so good, I felt exhilarated and I was ecstatic when I managed to overcome them. It was amazing.