# 289: U is for UNPLUG

As we come to the close of 2024, let us remember to UPPLUG and take some time for ourselves.

Dec 31, 2024

After a long walk, I arrive at Trefeuntec a small and quiet spot along Brittany’s GR 34. My room is sparse and peaceful like the beach I trek along earlier. I feel fortunate to be here, to walk, to breathe air scented by the sea, see the clouds in the sky and make stories from the pictures they make as they float by. “Nice Sky” might be a candidate for my tombstone epitaph as I’ve said these words for decades as I look out on horizons.

New friendships are made that evening and conversations morph easily between German, French and English. Intentions are set for visits in the future. Yes, the views are lovely, but it’s these unexpected connections, the sharing and openness that I love most about travel. As is said, We’re all in this together.

The next day it’s back to the rhythms of the shore and the waves they paint in the sand.

Near mid-day I climb to the top of a hill and in the distance see one lone sailboat.

So different than the sand sailors powered by the same breeze just a few hours walk away.

I walk on grateful to be carried by two strong legs.

I see fields and trees of green and skies of blue.

Over the rise there is a mandala in the sand. When I get home I learn about Laurence Berthod, who founded the association Au fil d'un mandala. She regularly practices on the beach at Trez Bellec where I am. She says mandalas allow you to connect with yourself and live in the moment. Walking does that for me.

“Creating mandalas allows you to reconnect with yourself. This practice also allows you to concentrate, to live fully in the present moment, to realize the ephemeral nature of existence and to be in a state of beneficial contemplation."
—Laurence Berthold

I arrive at my night’s lodging—the view from my window so different than the day before.

I decide to do a little laundry at an laundromat across from the boat marina but the dryer is not working and carrying soggy wet clothes does not seem a particularly brilliant idea so I pass.

The final walk of the trek begins with clouds and a breeze that steadily increases to become a wet and wild slog. Even though I’m drenched, laughing seems the appropriate response!

Wet and smiling, we all safely arrive in Camaret Sur Mer.

I enjoy a final celebratory meal of sole meunière…

and poached pear.

Then it’s up early to catch a ride to Brest and begin the journey home.

My days on Brittany’s GR 34 were wonderful and the journey was a lovely way to unplug and unwind.

There have been so many blessings in my life during 2024. I hope that you have had some in yours, too. I’ll think of you all on my bluff walk with Bosco today. I am grateful that you take the time to be with me here at our newsletter.

May we have love and peace in 2025.

October 8, 2024

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