A Savannah Staycation: Reflect. Renew. Retreat.
During this holiday season, my days have been filled with activity, to-do lists, and unending errands.
Don't get me wrong, I love the busy schedule and the hustle and bustle of the season, but I savor the quiet mornings by the twinkling Christmas tree, reflection by my warm cozy fire with a cup of cocoa.
It is in those moments that I'm able to breathe in the true meaning of Christmas--the coming of Jesus Christ. All too often, I have longed for 24-hours or more to turn off the hustle and bustle and to just be.
This year, I opted to do just that. I surprised my beloved with a 24-hour staycation in downtown Savannah, at a restored building from 1876 -- The Bellwether House.
The Bellwether House
Situated on the outskirts of Forsyth Park, on the quiet street of Gaston, it offers a quintessential stay. With its long inviting front porch, cozy living room, bar, and cafe, I felt immediately at home. Our room had a quiet study, so that I could send a few emails before completely disconnecting. The spacious bedroom had all the modern amenities a guest could imagine. From Apple TV to Google Home speakers and a keyless entry, the technology was seamless. Our bathroom was open and spacious. The restored claw-foot tub offered me a bath of peace and rest. That afternoon, we decided to meet in the living room for tea. As we savored our bite-sized sandwiches, scones, and pastries, we snuggled inside and enjoyed the library. The quiet afternoon welcomed us to ease into our evening. After enjoying our room, we met in the lobby for the daily sabering of the Champagne, along with its tasting. We then strolled the streets as Christmas lights glimmered in the windows offering us the spirit of joy and wonder!
That evening, we dined at a local French restaurant, Circa 1875. This authentically French restaurant offered us the French delicacies of coquilles St. Jacques, foie gras, and steak frites all paired with a superb French Bordeaux. As our evening began to come to a close, we meandered back to our home away from home to find a midnight sweet with our bed turned down. With a cognac in hand, we slipped into bed and watched The Holiday as we slumbered off to sleep.
The following morning, we slowly awoke and welcomed the slow moving morning. Following, we went to the living room and house dining room for our morning breakfast. Here, we warmed ourselves with coffee and a hearty breakfast, brought to us freshly from the local farm nearby. As we checked out and welcomed the chilly wintry day, I couldn't help but beam with appreciation of all the gifts that our staycation brought--mostly the gifts of reflection, renewal, and a true retreat--discovering in a home in our hometown with each other.
May you also take 24 hours or more this season to reflect, renew, and retreat. Merry Christmas!