Mountain Sanctuary for a Holiday Weekend

So the ingredients I have on hand for this holiday weekend are here:

• 2 friends

• 2 spaniels (badly in need of a trim)

• 1 husband (less badly in need of a trim)

• 12 candles of various shapes and sizes

• 4 Himalayan salt lamps

• Several bottles of wine

• A handful of crystals

• A fridge full of food and snacks

• A view of the Blue Ridge mountain range from our back deck

• 1 bucket full of firewood

• A pile of books

• A watercolor palette, paper and several brushes

We are in the mountains of North Carolina this weekend, and it’s pouring with rain as I stare out the French doors along the back of the house. Inside we’re warm and dry. Outside its cool and fresh — the clouds are speeding by. The candles are lit, the music is soft, and sanctuary vibe is strong. I’m just getting ready to cook up a big breakfast and I had to pause to ask a question.

What is it that makes a sanctuary when you have these ingredients?

Is it the people?

Is it the place?

Is it the conversation, the connection or the laughter?

Is it the tools we brought with us to sow the seeds of sanctuary into our environment?

I suspect it isn’t any one of these things, but rather the alchemy of all of them working together and creating a magical experience for everyone involved. We don’t always have all of these special ingredients on hand, but when we do, it’s a version of sanctuary that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

What are you up to this weekend? How will you create sanctuary for yourself? I’d love to hear!

With love and gratitude,

Lisa