In 2021 I needed fresh air.

So, I drove to Denver. I met up with my best friend and with my sister and her family. I got so many hugs, had so many big laughs and took so many deep breaths. Then I went out on my own. My “Walkabout.”

And I documented my trip in illustrations.

From Denver I headed West and discovered I’m not the chillest mountain driver. (There wasn’t even snow, it was August, but those inclines. Whew.)

As I gift to myself, and very on a whim, I booked a couple nights in a tent in Vail. But let’s be very clear here: Collective Retreats is not just “a tent.” It’s a beautiful piece of land in the mountains that’s staffed by terrific humans, thoughtfully designed and offers just the right amount of “rugged.”

This trip changed me.

I know that sounds “grand” but this escape was a turning point for me. I started to find my way back to myself. I will never forget the quiet joy of Collective Retreats and the magic it brought my way.