Gravitational Pull

The days of leisurely schedules filled with ample strolling are behind us, and we've accelerated our pace to start our daily drive home. We both undeniably feel a strong pull towards home.

We paused in Kansas for a night but didn't explore. We're currently in the marathon phase of our journey. We extended the slide for comfort, took a walk around the campground to stretch our legs, and then went to bed to prepare for another day of driving.

Our next stop was one of our favorites in Texola. The campsite beneath the trees has always been available to us, perhaps because people assume they won't fit. I'm saddened by the thought that we won't be visiting this area soon, but as the man who answers the phone and manages from his recliner says, 'I don't take any reservations; if I'm still alive, the campground will be there!' His lighthearted approach to life and everything it involves is truly impressive.

From that point, we traveled

through New Mexico and Arizona,

realizing we were getting closer

to home as the familiar cool

weather and gentle breezes

became noticeable.

What drives this desire to be

home rather than continue exploring, even after the enjoyable

five weeks we've spent traveling, witnessing stunning locations, and meeting amazing people? What are we moving towards, like horses racing to the stables as a storm approaches?

It's not about our material goods - in fact we are currently renting out our homes as part of our business plan and our big picture dreams, most of our stuff is boxed up. It's also not the labels of who we are in society, for that has never been something that drove either one of us. And as much as I love sharing colorful stories that include both humor and thought provoking tales, that's not what I lights my fire within when I picture being home.

So what is it that drives this feeling of wanting to being home over all else?

For me, there are beloved individuals who evoke this longing to be home. The smiles and laughter of our children and granddaughter are particularly precious. Somehow, it even alters the experience of connecting over the phone with my daughter Daphne and Sean, who reside in Austin, Texas, when I'm at home compared to when I'm traveling. I suppose you could say I feel more anchored when I'm at my home base.

Being connected to our inner circle, which includes family and close friends, truly distinguishes the feeling of being at home from being on the road. They are what make a place feel like home to me. Add in some yoga flow, music, and water, and you've captured the essence of my life's sweet nectar.

What does home mean to you? What draws you in like gravity?

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I will keep writing weekly as we delve into local attractions, reflections by the fire pit, and ways to Live Well Naturally.

In Gratitude,

Shari