The concept of a sabbatical has intrigued me for years.  A sabbatical is often associated with academic professions, but the benefits of a change in pace and scenery have always been clear to me.  I feel fortunate that in my youth and early adulthood, I had many summer experiences that were transformative.  And as someone who considers herself a life-long learner, I began to daydream about creating something like that in my adulthood. 

Does that sound crazy?  I thought so until I shared this little fantasy with my business coach, Ashley Gartland, and she asked me that magical question: Why not take a sabbatical?

Well, I had about a million reasons why it would never work, but it opened a door to imagine.  Where would I go?  What would I do?  Who would walk the dog…?  You know, deep questions like that.

I talked to the people in my life that would be most impacted, and was met with support for this wild idea of mine.  (I began to wonder if I was the only person who thought it was so wild.)

The planning began.  I decided that after my family’s vacation in North and South Carolina, I would extend my time in the South.  I was drawn to the idea of surrounding myself with charming old homes, tree-lined streets, and lush gardens. 

I knew that I would need some structure, but not too much.  I’d had a copy of The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron on my shelf for several years, and decided that this was the time to dust it off and dive into her exercises for a creative recharge. 

My other course of study would be based on the book, One Color A Day by Courtney Cerruti.  I love the idea behind this book because I’ve always loved to use water color paints, but what I love most is mixing the colors.  When I let go of the pressure to paint a subject matter, then I can just delight in the meditative experience of the color. 

I’m leaving the rest of my time open to write, explore, browse shops and galleries, and (gasp!) do nothing.  This is my third day of my 4-week adventure, and today I’m on my way from Charleston, South Carolina to Savannah, Georgia. If you care to share my adventures, check back for more frequent blog posts, and follow along on Instagram.  If you have a sabbatical adventure of your own, I would love it if you would DM me and share!