It has always been a personal practice for me to take the rest of the days after Christmas and into the New Year off. Aside from allowing me to get on with the tasks of preparing a million things for the Season ( from parties, shopping, gift wrapping and cooking), it also allows me to have some time later for reconnecting,recharging, rejuvenation and reflection, especially after the festivities are over.
I always like to spend the last two days of the year for a personal retreat - to take stock of the year that was, to set my goals/vision for the coming year, to take time to listen to what God wants me to do, to pray and to soak in God's word. And usually I do it in a new environment and with my whole family in tow. They get to have a holiday, I don't have to cook and I am free and licensed to do my own thing. Staying at home does not do the job as the sight of clutter and long-neglected chores rob me of my focus. I need to go somewhere where the referral calls can temporarily be denied or muted. This year we decided to go to Balai Indang - a very tranquil get away just a few minutes from the maddening Tagaytay road.
The place is so relaxing, the staff are so helpful, attentive and soft spoken and the meals are not so fancy, it feels like you're eating at home. You can sleep, nap or meditate in the very many corners of your room, the lanai or the gardens which always have a seat or two, a cushioned lounging chair or sofa and just dream away, until at mealtimes, a courteous staff comes around to say, "Ma'am, dinner is ready na po." What a life ! It's like living in a hacienda. I brought along my 84 yr old stressed out Mom, and she said, " Can you leave me here for a week? ". And why not, look.....
I always like to spend the last two days of the year for a personal retreat - to take stock of the year that was, to set my goals/vision for the coming year, to take time to listen to what God wants me to do, to pray and to soak in God's word. And usually I do it in a new environment and with my whole family in tow. They get to have a holiday, I don't have to cook and I am free and licensed to do my own thing. Staying at home does not do the job as the sight of clutter and long-neglected chores rob me of my focus. I need to go somewhere where the referral calls can temporarily be denied or muted. This year we decided to go to Balai Indang - a very tranquil get away just a few minutes from the maddening Tagaytay road.
The place is so relaxing, the staff are so helpful, attentive and soft spoken and the meals are not so fancy, it feels like you're eating at home. You can sleep, nap or meditate in the very many corners of your room, the lanai or the gardens which always have a seat or two, a cushioned lounging chair or sofa and just dream away, until at mealtimes, a courteous staff comes around to say, "Ma'am, dinner is ready na po." What a life ! It's like living in a hacienda. I brought along my 84 yr old stressed out Mom, and she said, " Can you leave me here for a week? ". And why not, look.....
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