Costa Rica | + Contemplation's For The Light Traveler.
This week's musical tune to compliment the {field note} below as you read, take a field trip, or do what you please: Jam Here.
“He who would travel happily must travel light.” -Antoine de St. Exupery
“Costa Rica… I’m coming for you!” This is all I could think the night before I was leaving on a plane to the lush land of Pura Vida. It was a last-minute booking for a flight and on the day before departure, I started to (finally) pack my suitcase.
I set an intention to travel light and hassle free. I didn't like the idea of having to go through airport procedures of checking a bag. Everything, for the next 8 days of my life would simply go into one single carry on suitcase...
I began to contemplate various questions. What will I wear on the plane? I wondered the last time I wore a dress... must've been well before the tiny house on wheels began! Will I play "dress up" on this adventure?
.... and what culture will be explored?
How many climates (and raindrops) will I be immersed in?
What wild animals can my heart come to know?
... and the magical retreats that may feel like home away from the tiny home?
What nature can I come to appreciate?
... and is there anywhere else I could be going that has not yet been planned?
As I would say, hear or see “Pura Vida”, time would seem to slow down as the facial expression on myself and any such person sharing the same space would change. Within the universal language of a smile that would get drawn on our faces were many magical moments. I can now see why the local Tico's call it "the pure life..." --- one that I see is peaceful, simple and uncluttered with a deep appreciation for nature, family and friends.
I believe Anatole France put it best; “Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe.” I am now back to The Northwoods and beginning a capsule wardrobe challenge as I experience what it is like to wear only 10 items of clothing, for 10 days, creating 10 different looks.
Within the simple act of packing and unpacking, whether traveling near or far, I get inspiration for what is truly essential in not only my wardrobe, but in life. My memories may be the only true thing I own and to me, are the ultimate traveling suitcase.
Have you heard? No need to be a tourist in the field. You can sign up HERE to join fellow travelers and receive occasional emails on how to build (and pack and unpack) a space to be present with what you love most.