Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Taking Refuge


I love being home, especially in the winter. I like to hang out in my pajamas, curled up in bed with the cats and a book, doing a little knitting here and there. There was a time in my life when I had a passion for travel, but these days I mainly want the peace and quiet of home.

But after being cooped up in my apartment for five days in row, exhausted and trying to shake off a cold, I wanted to run away from home. I couldn't stop thinking about my job and other subjects not suitable for one's vacation, and almost (but not quite) wished that I hadn't taken this week off because I really wasn't enjoying it.

Then everything changed.

I took a two hour drive to my favorite wildlife refuge. I swear that place is magical. Every time I go there, which is usually once a year, I ask myself why I don't visit more often. Spending time surrounded by wetlands and wildlife is so healing; it profoundly lifts my spirits.


A big storm is coming in today, but tomorrow I plan to get back on the road to visit another refuge. I wouldn't quite say my passion for travel has been restored-- I'm not ready to jump on a plane or anything-- but I have rediscovered a joy that somehow slipped through my fingers. Again.

If you live in the states and would like to visit a refuge, check out the National Wildlife Refuge System for more information.

6 comments:

Ronna said...

Nice post. Thanks for sharing.

Suz said...

Glad you are feeling better
and I just love herons....every time I see one..it's magic...
day trips are wonderful especially to visit mother nature
sometimes a walk by our library that has a boardwalk by a creek is enough....dargonflys,birds,plants,revive my spirit....I would walk along side you if I could
i found this blog with a guy knitter who went to Harvard...what a hoot and boy is he good...want to visiit him?

Theresa said...

What a sweet thing to do to make you feel better! I had a little bit of cabin fever yesterday and just had to get out of the house! It is tough when all of the festivities are done and over with! I love to stay busy and just sitting around just isn't for me! I would love to go to your peaceful place sometime! Have a blessed day my friend! HUGS!

Tracey ~ Clover said...

I love your spot for a vacation. I have a refuge not far from my home that we go to. It is so peaceful to just sit and watch the alligator's sunning and all the birds feeding. I hope your cold is better and you enjoy the rest of your vacation.

Caffeine Girl said...

Sorry your holiday week has turned out to be more of a sick leave!

Love the picture of the Heron. We get Great Blues here, and I'm moved every time I spot one!

Maiden Jane said...

I'm glad you were able to rejuvenate a bit. Please stop by and see my little owl!