Sometimes an ESCAPE can help you find yourself

Several months ago I got a phone call asking me to be part of a two plus day event of informal learning, relaxation and camaraderie bringing together a group of women at a retreat center just over an hour away.  While I was welcome to come as a participant, the organizers asked that I consider sharing my love of books with the group. While I am far from shy, the idea of going away with a group of people without having a particular buddy along was a bit of a stretch. As it turns out, I knew many of the people who decided to go even though we hadn’t spoken of our plans. Another winter weather event cut our arrival and our time short by a day, but most did arrive ready to jump into the experience.

Having decided to go, what to present? Most of the women I know are passionate readers and many have been involved in book groups for  years. Simply sharing the latest titles and trends certainly wouldn’t be enough. In keeping with the themes of the outing I set out to pull together titles that covered the globe and many genres. The result is a list, “Balancing Your Reading Diet,” that can be accessed here or on the Books page. Looking at my shelves from a different angle gave me a new appreciation for the many directions books can take you. It seemed a great chance to share another favorite of mine – short stories. These little gems, as I called them in my talk, are perfectly portable and a great introduction to a new author.  Short stories are great for another reason, they are available in such an array of formats. There are single author books, anthologies, podcasts, magazines, e-zines, website collections and more.

My session was only one of several by participants. We heard great talks about soon to be issued nutrition guidelines and the ins and outs of the local restaurant blogging community, played/learned Mah Jongg and enjoyed the beautiful mountain scenery and brisk winter air.  Way too soon we headed home.

The ESCAPE was much more than 24 hours away from home. Time spent with acquaintances can bring about friendships. There is always room for new people in one’s personal circle. Sharing what you love with others is worth the effort.  And the most confident person in a group still wonders at times if she’ll fit in.  Definitely worth the trip.

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