Write a guest post for Corey’s blog?
My inner critic was quick to respond,
“No way, it told me, that’s too scary. It’s out of your comfort zone.”
Totally true, I thought.
Then, I casually mentioned the idea to my other half, Randy, the best person I know and my high school sweetheart. He thought it was a fabulous idea. I kicked the idea around for a few more days starting to warm to it. When I shared it with my life coach friend, Sherri, she was “beyond, beyond” that this amazing opportunity had presented itself to me.
Next, the quote by Shannon L. Alder came across my path.
“Life always begins with one step outside of your comfort zone.”
At this point, the Universe was dropping hints and encouragement right and left.
So, friends, here I am.
My name is Katherine (Kathy) Benusa. I live in Everett, Washington, in the US, in a town of nearly 114,000 people. I was born and raised here. My parents and brother live nearby.
We have chosen to live in the historic part of town because of our love for all that has history and a story. It is a lovely neighborhood of tree-lined streets and beautiful gardens. Perfect for walking. It borders on an inlet of Puget Sound. Our home was built in 1916. Even though we have remodeled, it still retains its beauty and character. It is my sanctuary of peace and calm. It’s filled with treasures we have collected, along with pieces that make me happy and speak to my heart. It is a one-of-kind.
Our gardens I designed and further add to the tranquility and calm.
This is my home.
After teaching for 38 years, it finally felt right to move into retirement. It was a difficult decision to make. I was great at my job, loved being a part of something bigger than myself – a respected teacher, colleague, and good friend to those around me. At the time, I thought it might be difficult transitioning into retirement. Being an educator was such an important part of my life for so many years. I shouldn’t have spent a minute on that worry. I haven’t regretted my decision for one moment. The rewards have continued to follow me even though I’ve left the classroom. It was an amazing career, one that I hold near and dear to my heart. I would choose it again if I had it to do over.
We have had the good fortune to build a vacation home in eastern Washington in the town of Chelan. Much smaller than Everett, with a population of around 3,500, it has that small-town feel. It sits at the end of a 55-mile lake that is fed from the Stehekin River at the base of the Cascade Mountains. Once primarily an apple and cherry growing region, it Is now dotted with wineries where some of those orchards once stood.
The climate is opposite of home, hot in summer, cold in winter vs. the mild year-round temperatures of western Washington.
It is a blessed getaway that sits atop a hill, a bit out of town, with a spectacular view. We designed the inside of our home with memorable snippets from our travels. A lovely floor to ceiling mural painted by the artist, Andy Eccleshall, ushers one up the stairs. It is a collection of places we have visited and love, creatively meshed into one scene. Our bedroom has a mural of Blenheim Palace in England. Andy painted it from a picture we took whilst on vacation. Our entry floor is a point on point black and white marble tile as a nod to a 400- year-old bed and breakfast we stayed in years ago in the town of Winchcombe Oxfordshire, England. Our gardens in Chelan also offer peace and tranquility and compliment the breath-taking, ever-changing view of the lake, hills, and farmland. I have loved planning every detail of a trip, finding special, out of the ordinary things to do and unique places to stay.
In the fall of 2019, we planned a trip to London and the southern part of England in Cornwall to visit Poldark Country.
In addition, after being a long-time reader (and fan) of Corey and her blog, I decided it was time for Randy and me to take a trip to France to have a stay in the “house next door” in Provence and end our trip at Corey and Yann’s Paris apartment-perfection! It was one of the best decisions we ever made-totally amazing and unforgettable!
Having Corey and Yann introduce us to the heart and soul of Provence was pure magic. We couldn’t have imagined the adventures we would have and were unaware of the delights that waited around each and every corner. We treasured time with their gracious, talented artisan friends who welcomed us into their homes with open arms. We explored the elegant and the rustic of Provence, from a beautiful hotel to a crumbling chateau, to a hike high above the sea. We visited an extraordinary museum and stumbled upon a heavenly choir singing in a church. We experienced markets and unique shops.
We learned about French history and culture and listened to stories that entertained and made us laugh. Corey and Yann patiently answered our questions. Together, we explored the countryside and villages-all a photographer’s dream.
We learned about honey-from the hive to the local shop. We ate in quaint restaurants, had lunches with the perfect glass of Rose’ and in the evening, dining on beautiful meals prepared by Corey, while listening to music, all in the glow of candlelight. Randy and Yann walked to the patisserie each morning for croissants. The house next door and the charming bells of Saint-Zacharie welcomed us home each night. We loved “living” next door. Corey and Yann shared so much more of Provence than I can say. They are genuine, lovely people with enthusiasm and heart. We were spoiled and happy.
Exploring the French brocantes filled my heart with joy and renewed the love I have for aging fancies. I am smiling right now at the very thought. There are treasures I left behind. They are calling to me to bring them home and I will. So many memories to cherish and hold dear.
Here’s to friends!
Thank you, dear Corey, for the honor and privilege of writing a piece for your blog.
With love,
Kathy
I leave you with a quote by St. Therese.
“May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise, and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”
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