New York: Riverview Estates by Brophy in the Catskills

I was blessed this week to host a retreat gathering a small group of women at Riverview Estates by Brophy. Jason (the manager) was an amazing host, even taking the ladies on a tour of the grounds and sharing all kinds of great tips about the area. He and his staff were always eager to jump to meet our needs -- it was clear they took great pride in their work.

The Riverview Estates is located near Hancock, New York, a little over two hours from New York City. The drive is  a beautiful trek through winding mountains, with trees, rivers, and so much more. Even though we were so close to the city, it felt like we were days away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

There are three houses on the estate, each offering its own special features that makes it stand out beautifully. Comfortable, quiet, and snuggled into the mountains, you couldn't find a better place to get away with your family or large group.

The main house features an opulent master suite, a hot tub (which the ladies took full advantage of), and beautiful views of the river. Just up the hill is the spectacular entertaining house, with a well-appointed professional kitchen, dining area, pool table, and lots of space to kick back and get to know each other. A third building - the guest house - offered space for the ladies to get away from the crowd and enjoy some time in comfortable quarters with crisp linens and cozy spaces.

And just a short walk down the road, the views only get better. The Delaware River is pretty majestic, I wish I had set aside extra time to just sit and enjoy it for hours. I don't fish, but I was a little jealous of the anglers I saw up and down the river!

 And the night sky? Clear and gorgeous. Breathtaking. Still. We gathered around a fire, enjoyed a glass of wine and a Tarot card reading (thanks Lauren!), and just drank it all in. Amazing.

Thank you ladies for a beautiful time! And huge thanks to the lovely and talented Beja B Photography for the pictures!

Catskill Vacations

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Virginia: The Land Celebration near Gore

The Land Celebration near Gore, Virginia was once a nudist colony, and as you drive up the winding drive (past signs warning you not to enter unless invited), there seems to be some of that energy left in the air.

Rustic and unique, The Land Celebration was blanketed in snow when we arrived, but that didn't stop it feeling warm and inviting. I was reminded of the quote from their website: 

"Out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing, there is a field...I'll meet you there." ~Rumi

Fitting.

Accommodations on the land vary, from private cabins and large houses to dorm-style spaces and spots to camp. Each brought its own uniqueness.

I loved the wailing wall (pictured here), as I am always interested in bringing together cultures I am not necessarily familiar with and tasting their traditions. It was really a great experience to sit with my thoughts and then add to the wall, and to stand by as the other ladies did the same. There was a real feel of beautiful energy in the air as the women approached the wall, took paper and pen, and covered their heads with the shawls. Lovely.

Something I really loved about this land was the way they went way beyond being inclusive - they are embracing. Following the walking trails, you might stumble across a sweat lodge in the ceremonial area near the pond, one of the three labyrinths, or a beautiful spot to meditate. It was just what I needed, just when I needed it. I very much enjoyed the quiet time soaking it all in, and know there are many places I didn't even get the opportunity to see.

Check out their website for details on gatherings at The Land Celebration.

Thank you to the beautiful and talented Victoria Karalun of Canary Lane Photography for the beautiful photography. She does fantastic work!

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