Finding Peace

For the past few years, as a way to honor our parents, my siblings and I have been intentional about just the three of us getting together. With us living miles apart, having jobs and families to take care of, too much time was passing between visits so we just decided that every year in March we would see each other.

This year is a little different because we had to make a bit of an adjustment. So instead of March, we will see each other in November. However, in the meantime my sister and I decided that for Spring Break, we'd take a short trip.

There are so many cool places and towns to visit in Florida. Finding some adventure to explore is not hard. We decided to go with glamping! We've talked about doing this for awhile and now seemed like as good a time as any.

Off we went on Monday to Kissimmee Prairie Preserve in Okeechobee! We had no idea what to expect. My sister watched YouTube videos and Googled how to prepare for camping. She got some great ideas. We planned, packed, took a deep breath and turned on the GPS.

After a 2.5 hour drive, we truly were not prepared for what we saw and heard! What we saw was just miles and miles of beautiful grasslands and heard nothing but the sounds of nature. We could have not been more grateful for the peace and quiet. No car horns blowing, no traffic, no airplanes overhead...just quiet. It was like someone had turned off all the noise and we could finally think clearly.

There were trails to hike, animals to spot, and really kind, helpful people to talk with. This trip took simplistic relaxation to a whole other level for me. Even tough our cellular devices worked, the cares and worries and stresses of life felt almost non-existent.

And at night, the stars! I do not think I've ever in life seen stars so clearly and vibrant. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve is one of two certified "dark parks" in Florida that allow you to see stars and planets this clear. After making a campfire, we sat out at night just looking up and marveling at the amazing sight.

Time spent with my sister is always great! We love trying new and different things! Our parents wanted very much to be able to travel after they retired. Unfortunately, they never got the opportunity to live out their plans. I am thankful and very grateful my siblings and I get to do this for them.

Completely rested...