Although I safely landed in Poland this past Tuesday at 10AM, I am just now getting to writing an update. Was I that busy? Not at all. Instead of writing about every single detail like I usually tend to, I will do a few observations.
Getting there. My Newark to Warsaw flight was seamless. LOT Polish Airlines were great, providing us with a DreamLiner plane, plentiful food and very kind staff. I had an aisle seat and actually managed to nod off! Thanks to a strong tail wind, we got there one one before scheduled time, another win. After landing, I made my way through passport control, got a coffee, and found a taxi. Taxi took me to Warsawa Gdanska train station from where I took a train to Lodze. My friend collected me at Lodze train/bus station. While it may sound like an extensive journey, it went seamlessly. The taxi driver, the cashier lady, even a café person all were so helpful.
Spending time with my friend. We have not done much. Similar to my visit here last year, there are no grand plans to sightsee or visit landmarks or places of interest. We both agreed that our priority is rest. What does it entail? Talking, cooking, taking walks, sleeping late, picking mushrooms, writing and reading, watching TV. Sounds really idle but we both feel that is the time we need. Just time to “do nothing.” My anxious nature is okay with it – I have been reading and journalling, slowly planning Q4 and reflecting on Q3, and just closing any digital open loops, or, as Rachel in Wales calls them – pebbles in the shoes. This visit is sort of a retreat.
Feelings. a) Missing my kids and T. L and R are both in summer camp for these two weeks and, according to their teacher’s report, doing really well! This was a great idea after all- especially for R since he will be going to this preschool in the fall. A great way to get him accustomed to being in a group of people his age. b) Guilt. HA! Being away from my kids for 10 days seems like a lot so I do feel guilty. BUT: I am with them for the rest of this year so I need to get over myself.
Food. My friend is an incredibly good cook. But we went out for pierogies yesterday and they were heavenly.
Natural Springs/Spa/Sauna. Yesterday we visited a place that has natural springs that you can swim in and spent some time in their sauna as well. Participated in a sauna “ritual” where music and aromatherapy is used and the temperature is turned wayyy up, sweated buckets. Couldn’t make it till the end, had to walk out since at the end it was too hot for me and I’m kind of light weight. Felt like a kid swimming in the natural springs pool.
Mom of Children 