MONDAY NIGHT
We ambled through Chania, Crete. Not unlike the touristy part of Athens around the Acropolis (Plaka), Chania has its hundreds of souvenir and clothing shops and as many gelato, coffee and traditional restaurants near the Old Town. Despite the throngs of people, though, it is quite beautiful.
After our many, multiple-course meals in Mt. Pelion, Beth and I are throttling back and eating fewer meals. We skipped dinner last night, though I’ll cop to having a chocolate bar before bed. Hey, my Inner Child asked!
Speaking of addictive behaviors, I have purchased very little in Greece. For a brief moment, I considered a small bouzouki, but did not buy it. I know myself well-enough that it would not be played at home.
Beth has peeked at clothing, but she has little interest in getting involved with shopping – second only to packing on her Top Ten list of Least Favorite Vacation Activities.
TUESDAY
This morning, I slept until 10am. My dreams were many and vivid as my subconscious mind begins to process the healer’s retreat.
Beth continues to suffer with a cough she brought to Greece that doesn’t want to let go. As a result, I am suggesting a very relaxed approach to plans over the next few days. If we just rest, walk, talk, read, write and process, I will be content. We enjoy sightseeing, but we value being healthy more. It’s also relevant that when we return we have six busy weeks of travel and work ahead of us.
Speaking of travel, I received some tips from readers of this blog about the topic. Most agreed that list-making was key. Thanks for sharing everyone!
Here’s a gem from Suzy Joiner (and husband, Kevin Brown) that fits well with today’s theme of R & R:
One thing we TRY to do (not always successful…but we try) is to plan our first day at our destination or “in country” as a “down day” at a location which does not involve much navigation or logistical stress to get to, has good food on site or we have researched easy options ahead of time, and possibly even a scheduled massage or some form of pampering/decompression/chill experience built in. When we can do this it really helps transition from the harried travel day and all the “lead up” planning that has gone into our trip…. into opening up to enjoying the trip experience 🙂
Thanks, Suzy. That’s gold!
