I'd never used AirBNB before, but I had a great experience and cannot recommend it enough. So many opportunities to explore...
I drove three hours north and west to Livingston Manor, NY, nestled peacefully in the Catskills.
The first thing I wanted to do when I arrived was get a winter hike in.
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| Even the garage was gorgeous to me. |
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| The house I stayed in. |
Oh, funny story. There had been coyote sightings around the 20-acre property. But I was assured that if I just rang these bells it would scare any coyote off. No sightings for me, though. Phew!
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| Caught this view as I was waking up Saturday. I didn't even remember taking the picture till it uploaded... |
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| My room for the weekend, the "Light Room." |
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| Breakfast was included in my stay. I lingered over coffee. |
It was a warm and sunny weekend. The only sounds were drips from icicles melting:
Look at those meandering footprints. They must belong to a wanderer. (They belonged to me!):
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Saturday afternoon I went to town to walk around. Not a whole lot was open this time of year, and I didn't need food, or souvenirs, or... anything. I didn't want to buy anything because I didn't need or want anything.
I didn't need anything. That's a powerful thought.
I treated myself to a haircut because I never do that kind of thing enough--you know, the kind of thing that stops you from looking like you live in the woods.
My hairdresser was bubbly and kind, but when I described my weekend to her, she was perplexed.
I don't understand. You don't know anybody here? You've never been here before? And you came alone... for the quiet? You're not bored?
No, not bored. Refreshed.
I was lucky enough to stop by Catskills Art Society Art Center for two free photography exhibits. The work of Julie Forrest and Flora Hogman was delightful--whimsical and playful, like a lighter Roger Ballen.
Books. Writing. Photos. All night and all day. I feel so much more happy with myself and my life than I have in a long time.
