I recently traveled to the Omega Institute located in Rhinebeck, New York. The history of Rhinebeck dates back to 1686 and is located in New York’s Hudson Valley. Omega offers classes ranging from leadership, yoga, songwriting, to pain management and many other classes you may not consider until reviewing the wide range of opportunities. I attended a Spanish immersion workshop there 25 years ago, with my mother, and we still talk about the only word I still remember, “Maravilloso”, which captured our experience. One of her favorite memories, which still happens today, was being called to dinner by a conch shell!
This time I attended a writing workshop. Signing up at the last minute, I was not able to stay in the Omega Campus accommodations. However, as a result, I discovered a very historic, charming town center and a new hotel, Mirbeau Inn and Spa, www.mirbeau.com. Mirbeau exceeded my expectations with a 5 -star chef as well as a beautiful spa! My room had a cozy fireplace and was only a 20-minute drive to the Omega Campus.
I read Kelly Notaras’s book, The Book You Were Born to Write and was thrilled with the opportunity to attend her 5-day workshop. Kelly has edited numerous transformational, inspirational, self-help non-fiction books and currently owns and operates KN literary arts, www.knliterary.com. The class consisted of 34 aspiring writers, exceptionally diverse, albeit on a common mission to help and inspire others. I witnessed true joy in Kelly’s passion to reframe stories and illuminate paths not considered before by her students. I suppose the highlight for me was each student reading aloud for 5 minutes on their topic of choice. Some stories brought me to tears, some inspired my imagination, some amused me with their clever humor, and still, others works destined to be architects of change.
I spent one afternoon off exploring the town center a bit and found a pleasant surprise in the store, No Sugar. This treasure-trove holds incredible silk and cashmere designs, my favorite being a long sweater from Japan. I lucked out being assisted by a personal stylist, Jenna Hope www.thelookery.com, who has a great eye for what looks good. Other finds include a short, faux fur jacket at Darryl’s, www.darrylsny.com and some very comfy casual shoes perfect for Colorado’s chilly climate at Pegasus Footwear (available on Amazon). Bun Burgers on Market Street provided one of the best burgers I have ever eaten, although my opinion could have been swayed a bit by the vegetarian cuisine served at the Omega Institute!