Paradise lost...

Tomorrow we leave Italy and go back to what seems like the very far away big city. I realised yesterday, sitting quietly looking across the sweep of the alpine mountains and the lake below that I have been living in an environment where I don't even have to close my eyes to find meditation. The world of nature comes to me here and I really can just relax.

Yesterday we went up in a cable car to the top of a mountain in nearby Switzerland. From there we continued to climb.until we reached the apex. Just breathing and looking around was wonderful. I felt unconcerned and unencumbered by fears,anxieties or any uncertainty. The only overwhelming thing was the beauty of the world.

I have to stop and allow myself to feel courageous too. This environment has challenged me. The mountain roads, the high climbs, the car journeys have often been things I have said no to. I could last week have imagined myself waiting at a cafe whilst my friends went up the mountain. Yesterday there was no hesitation - I wouldn't have missed out on such a wonderful experience. Coming back from a fantastic meal last night (zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta, osso bucco and panna cotta with too much nice wine)I had not a twinge of anxiety over the mountain road. Who is this new brave woman I see?

So today is still another day to relax and be here. I know this much, I will leave here rated, revived, with friendship in my heart and longing to return, but meanwhile I still have today.