That's right! We have hit the road and are officially on sabbatical!

Well actually my husband is on sabbatical—the lad and I are just along for the ride, but it feels like we are all in it together (and indeed we are). This sabbatical has been delayed several years and it feels so good and yet a little strange now that it's finally here. I have that butterflies-in-the-stomach kind of anxiousness that always accompanies any new situation—you know that little flutter and thrill of possibility that lives behind your bellybutton, all of that what-will-it-be and where-will-it-take-us rush and excitement along with wee bit of apprehension, eagerness and earnestness. Because I want to make the most of this time and want it to be good for all of us—productive and fun for all, I do spend a fair amount of time mulling things over, trying to get situated and deciding where and how to begin. I want to get it right and yet know how ridiculous that is—how so much of what is good about taking a sabbatical is wrapped up in letting go and opening up. Having done this before and knowing what a grand adventure it can be does help tons with the letting go and waiting and seeing. The trick is to strike a balance—plan a bit and roll a lot. Hence my sabbatical formula...

carpe diem + que sera sera = la dolce vita.

Simple and elegant in spirit (if a bit mixed up linguistically)—my favorite kind of equation.

This time around is a little different though—we are just three now. I know, how can that be?...but it's true. My dear middle man has embarked on his own adventure—first year of college!...

I will admit that I've had to give myself a stern talking to now and again (when I get especially mopey over having him gone). I am so proud and so happy for him though, and knowing that he is in such a good spot and that there are so many wonderful things ahead of him really goes such a long way to easing the pinch of having another bird fly the nest.

And my oldest bird?...my she does fly! She's off on another international jaunt—this time a semester abroad attending French university and is loving it so far...

It promises to be a year of newness, of getting out of comfort zones, of embracing new routines, experiences and people. It's altogether a good thing shaking things up now and again. Here's a glimpse of the shake up here...

So as you can see, nothing too strenuous so far. After a busy summer of planning and prepping and sending dear ones away from home, we are now getting ourselves settled and are easing into this new school year. For the next few months we'll be staying in one of my favorite spots—a place that I love and that is full of happy memories and that feels familiar and new at the same time—the perfect beginning before the next jump (ooh there's that flutter again!...so exciting, so good!).

Sending happy, new beginning thoughts your way!...
xoxo
~alison