A Story of Reflection and Renewal

Hello Reader,

Recently, I stood on the cliffs of the Algarve, watching the waves crash against the rocks. Seagulls floated effortlessly on the air currents. As the clouds passed overhead, they changed the color of the water from blue to silver and then a darker shade of grey.

I could feel myself breathe and my body relax, even though I was still aware and attentive to my surroundings. I had a good night's rest that evening, which gave me an additional dose of energy for a longer walk with Sophie, my dog.

In that moment, I realized how essential rest is to our creative and professional lives—not as an indulgence but as a necessity for growth and clarity.

My Substack post, written while I was in the throes of launching my memoir, The Shaman's Wife, shared the lessons I learned from embracing rest and reflection during my retreats in Portugal. These lessons have reshaped how I approach my work and connection with others. [Read the story here → The Power of Stillness]​

I encourage you to carve out time to pause and reflect. Rest and quiet time are essential habits. If you'd like inspiration, join me in exploring some mindfulness practices or nature walks—what unfolds in the quiet is amazing.

One more thing...

In case you haven't heard, I'm doing a major recalibration around social media. I'll now be posting my writing, essays and blog posts on my own blog on my website. You can read more about my reasons on the blog.

Introducing Unwritten Journeys

Are you an aspiring author with a story to tell but unsure of how to start or where to go next?

UNWRITTEN JOURNEYS IS FOR YOU

Maybe you've begun writing, only to find yourself struggling with doubt, stuck in negative self-talk, or questioning if anyone would care to read your words. Imagine if you could find a place dedicated to nurturing your writing mindset—a space designed not for craft or technique, but for the courage, clarity, and confidence to hear your story and let it unfold.

Unwritten Journeys is a transformative writing mindset retreat designed for new and aspiring authors who need space, quiet, and community. Held in the serene beauty of the Algarve, this retreat offers time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with your vision, far from daily distractions.

Connect to your muse while you take care and nourish your mind, body, spirit, and heart.

One Last Thing: Musings

This year, I promised myself that I would write more poetry - and publish a book of poems. Now, if that isn't scary, I don't know what it is!

To walk my talk, I'm sharing a poem I wrote in response to Beth Kempton's one-word #tinywinterpoem. These poems must be written within ten minutes; no editing is allowed. Her word was "wolf." It happened so quickly; I'm lucky I caught it in mid-air. I hope you like it. I'll refine it before publishing. It's meant to be read aloud. I believe all poetry should be read aloud.

WOLF

The night winds

howl through the trees

moonlight scatters crystals

on the ground

when next appears

another sound.

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With slow gait

and soft landing

slyly a shadow

darts in and out

then pauses

to sing aloud.

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He is her lover,

nights when she appears

brilliance

cutting forest canopy

and his voice

for all to hear.

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Mystery dwells in the shadows

earth and sky commune

heart songs in the night

the wolf and his lover

the moon.

Wishing you peace and renewal,

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