Places of Respite

I recently returned from Toronto, where I facilitated two workshops at OECTA's Fem+Power Conference. As usual, I underestimated how tired I would be afterwards. Sharing my story is a necessary part of this ministry but it does take an emotional toll. It is one I'm willing to pay, but also have to embed emotional recovery into my routine. On my way home from Winnipeg, I made a stop at St. Mary's Nursery; part of my recovery!

The goal of any business is of course to sell a product or service and in the pursuit of that, businesses pay attention to customer service, positive spaces, quality merchandise, etc. However, sometimes, perhaps unbeknownst to them, they also end up creating a space of peace and respite for people like me. Debbie's Greenhouse in Kenora and St. Mary's Nursery in Winnipeg are two such places. Walking into their space is a mental and emotional time out for me, a time when I can momentarily suspend reality. In the winter, they are purely magical and I visit as often as possible just to wander around soaking up the enchantment (have I mentioned how much I love Christmas?). In the spring and summer, they are places of growth and hope; warm and inviting. A place where I can soak in serenity and renew my energy. I'm thankful for that.