Three weeks ago, I embarked on an adventure of a lifetime, one that I had been impatiently anticipating for months. In May, I registered for a painting retreat with my art heroes, the family of Milan Art Institute, and the day was finally here. It was more than just a retreat; it was a leap outside my comfort zone, in ways I had never imagined.
For the first time in my 53 years, I traveled overseas by myself. I left my family behind for three weeks, embarking on a journey purely for me. There was a time when I might have called this selfish, but now I understand that self-awareness and self-fulfillment are essential to showing up fully for our loved ones. And so, with excitement and a little apprehension, I set out from LAX (Los Angeles Airport).
My first stop was Munich, Germany, where I had a layover. I could have stayed in the airport for eight hours, playing it safe, which is exactly what I used to do. But this time, I had pre-planned an adventure. I had connected briefly online with Sara, another artist heading to the same retreat, and she suggested we explore Munich together. I had never met her in person, but something about the shared experience of going on this art-filled journey brought us together. Sara was coming from Seattle, and we decided to make the most of our layover by taking a train into the city.
As soon as we met, it felt like we had known each other for decades. We bonded instantly over our wry sense of humor and, of course, our mutual love of art. It’s funny how these two things alone can create such a strong connection. Together, we ventured into the heart of Munich, exploring the bustling marketplace, soaking up the vibrant culture, and admiring the historic beauty that surrounded us. It was exhilarating, and I couldn’t believe how much I was enjoying stepping so far outside my usual boundaries.
Normally, I’m the kind of person who gets to the airport early, finds my gate, and stays put—no venturing out, no taking risks. But I am so grateful that Sara was with me. We laughed, explored, and experienced Munich in a way that felt truly alive. By the time we took the train back to the airport, we had become fast friends.
At the airport, we met Rebecca, another artist from Hawaii, who was joining us. The three of us spent the rest of the time together, dining, laughing, and sharing stories until it was time to board our flight to Ancona, Italy. It was a moment I’ll never forget because we were not just traveling to Italy; we were stepping into an experience that would transform us as artists and individuals.
Italy was waiting for us, and I knew that this journey—this retreat with my art heroes—was going to be the adventure of a lifetime. I was no longer just traveling for myself; I was traveling for the person I wanted to become, both in my art and in my life. I couldn’t wait to see what was next.
