5 Quick Things 005
Finding rest and creativity in a solo retreat
Last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to get away alone for 24 hours to rest, read, write, and pray. I called it a “Solo Create Retreat.” I sat in silence, I did a lot of writing, I made some notes for how I want the year to go. I did some yoga, I went for a couple of short walks in the woods, and I even did a little chair dancing! I treated myself with lots of hot tea, sparkling wine, water, and chocolate. For this week’s five quick things, I thought I’d share five quick things that surfaced on my time away.
One Retreat Guide
I used this retreat guideline from Charlotte Donlon as a general guide for my time away. It was incredibly helpful to go on retreat with a vague schedule in mind. I gave myself the freedom to shift things up as needed, but it gave me a great routine for rest, prayer, and productivity. Charlotte also offers customized retreat guidelines based on season, with lots of ideas for how to use your time. And if you can’t sneak away for an overnight alone, she offers guidelines for 40-minute and 4-hour retreats too!
I retreated at Camp Calumet, the day after the first snowstorm of the year. Doesn’t it look dreamy?
One Poem to read on repeat
Staying Power by Jeanne Murray Walker became an anthem for me over my weekend away. No matter my doubt or questioning, God never stops whispering I love you.
One Song to Pray
One Reading Challenge
Always up for a good reading challenge, I was thrilled to discover the Massachusetts Center for the Book 2023 Reading Challenge at our public library. I’m hoping to get the whole family involved all year, but we’ll see how it goes. For January, I read The Red Pony by John Steinbeck.
One App to Download
Every year I try to increase my personal time of prayer and Bible reading. No matter how great my intentions, I have a very hard time sticking to any devotional program. Last week, my pastor introduced me to Pray As You Go and I am hooked. With daily devotions only 12-15 minutes long, it is the perfect way for me to pray over music and scripture, no matter how busy my day may be. I love to listen to it before I get out of bed every morning or right after I’ve gotten under the covers at night, but sometimes the only quiet time I have is in the car. I love the versatility the App offers, and the quiet moments of stillness and contemplation.
Next week is Newsletter week, so there won’t be another Five Quick Things until December. Need a recommendation? Send me a quick message and I’ll do my best to include it!
Until next time,
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For your February reading challenge, if you haven't already read Anna Solomon's Leaving Lucy Pear, it would be a great choice. Set in Gloucester, by a Gloucester native, and all sorts of references to Lanesville!