I went to Manyana

I went to Manyana and had the time of my life...

Like every single time we go, it's a period of pure glee and joy and happiness. It becomes a symbolic place. Every year it provides me with an opportunity to reflect upon my year and continue forward where I'm lacking in mobile cell reception, unwanted visitors and all other forms of technology. I can reach a place where I'm so in touch with nature and my passions. I listen to music and surf and walk and every single day I fall asleep and wake up to a view of the beach. I can detoxify not only my body but my mind. I can hear the waves and have time for myself and have the support and connection with my closest friends and family. I laugh constantly and smile and feel free. I don't know anyone else. I don't know anywhere else I feel so at peace and at home. I know the area like the back of my hand. We have been for 8 years straight now. A fair few life stages.. for all eight of us. Many New Years Eves', countless surfs and rekky's (both successful and unsuccessful), the loss and gain of our nearest and dearest, new friendships, new careers, a new dog... or two.... but always a pleasure, every year.

Elena xxx

The Power of Genuine People

I think it's the undeniable giggles where your expressions are suppressed under a puffed breath that expresses optimal laughter, proving to be the epitome of true friendships.

With a good friend of mine (you know who you are), we have had countless conversations regarding the art and importance of finding good friendships and discovering and exploring different connections with different people in your life... It has become seemingly obvious since finishing school, which people add meaning and value to my life. The people who understand you, understand the 'real' you, the you without a facade, without a mask.

I believe that you have several soul mates, they pop into your life for a reason- male and female, different class, different race: soul mates are the people who you instantly understand, who instantly understand you. At age 18 I have found a few soul mates, about 4 to be completely honest. These people I can expose everything to. My vulnerabilities... Everything. I can't be submissive of my other friends, they still mean the absolute world to me, they inspire, encourage and have shaped the person I am today. I have a unique connection with each and everyone of them. 

This blog post has been in my journal for a long time... It's now time to post. Before I was scared of the reaction of other people and what they would think. Especially knowing that old friends and gme public read it (I think). I'll scare some people off, hurt and intrigue some. 

The shy and introvert elena will come out, even if it is online... Not that it counts so much, don't worry I know. 

I'll have an epiphany soon and write another on the same topic....

Elena, x

(Writing this from a cafe in Paris- Saint Germaine- the man beside me is trying to read my journal).