"Gratitude brings truth to our past, creates peace for today, and designs a vision for tomorrow."   
- Melody Beattie

     
     When a person travels to a foreign culture, one of the hardest obstacles to overcome is the breakdown of your five physical senses. A language you don’t understand, strange sights and sounds, and different tastes and smells. One must rely on that sixth sense that people refer to as intuition, karma or heart chants. I know it as faith. My faith instills confidence in me knowing that at some point in my journey, everything will blend together. My joy will dance upon the hearts of the people I meet along the road of life.
     However, this journey was a little different than my other adventures. I was traveling solo. I had never traveled without at least one friend or family member in tow. And I was traveling with a wounded heart. I was in the most vulnerable state, ever, I think. I was a bit anxious before I left my home for the airport on September 1, 2015. I was unaware of the reawakening my soul would take in the next 21 days.
     My Rick Steves’ 21-day trip through the backroads of Europe forever changed me. With each step I took along the cobblestones of Europe brought a bit of light through my veil of sorrow. By the end of our tour, I felt such joy and peace again. When you read through my travel writings, I believe you will observe the renaissance that took place for this solo Rose.
     I will be forever grateful to the Rick Steves’ tour program. I believe everything happens for a reason, there are no coincidences. Our tour family was wonderful from Keith, our guide, to each and every tour mate. We shared much laughter and joy with every mile we walked and stumbled.  I trusted them with my heart and in return, I was blessed with a renewal of life.  
     Shortly after my return home, I received an email from a tour mate with a photo. Her note simply said, “I miss your laughter.”  Wow, it wasn’t my imagination. My renaissance had begun; the light of joy was shining bright again in my soul.
     My renaissance will continue as I plan my next travel adventure. Yes, another Rick Steves’ tour is in my future. And yes, I am excited to be a solo traveler.
Carpe Diem!
                                       Until we meet again, may your travels be filled with laughter and joy,  
                                                                                                                                                                                 Nancy Jean Rose

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