Yes, You Can Absolutely Have It All! One Day at a Time
- Feb 7
- 2 min read
I’m sitting here by an infinity pool, immersed in a dreamlike escape. The sun shines on this Orotina, Costa Rica retreat, with the wind gently blowing. The jungle is filled with the call of birds and the squeals of howler monkeys. Is this a mindful adventure? I pinch myself. No, I’m actually here, traveling solo in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.
Just days ago, I was collaborating with a group on a mural in Nuevo Arenal, and now I see the photos of my new friends as they return home—mostly into a snow storm, but with smiling kids and families. I remember when time away felt monumental. Now, on this long-term solo trip, I reflect on the rhythms of life. My kids are grown and living their lives. My grandson misses his Nonna, which tugs at my heart, yet I’m filled with gratitude for this time to do things I’ve always longed to do. I spent years fully immersed as a full-time mom. Now I’m embracing this chapter as a full-time solo artist, taking a sabbatical to explore the world.
Many of the women artists I worked with this week are in the busy phase of raising families. I remember that longing to have just a moment alone. To carve out five or six days away from home was an epic endeavor. Yet, there were the chubby hands reaching out to you, the kisses under the chin, and the cuddles before bedtime. I’ve been there. Juggling career and family and enduring the paradox of loving being needed and needing time to yourself. Neither stage is better. It’s just different.
So, what I’m getting at is to embrace your current stage. Whether you’re dreaming of a future Costa Rica adventure or a solo weekend, know that the times are changing. Someday, you may be solo by an infinity pool, reflecting on the sticky fingers and dimpled smiles of a past chapter and you’ll wish for having that again. In the end, you can have it all, but each chapter is different and each one comes with a little yearning for the other. The best thing to do is to enjoy the moment in front of you.
So, if you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, overworked, overstimulated and itching for an escape, remember, this stage is precious. Relish it. Someday, you’ll have your solo adventure—maybe with a nap in the sun or a dip in the pool.
Life’s journey is a beautiful, emerging adventure. You can do it all, have it all, just not all at once.
Ciao,
Elida
P.S. Lindsey, one of the amazing artists and the mamma in the picture with those darling boys told me she wouldn’t have made it home without my audiobook. She said, “I made it home, finally after driving 6hrs but thanks to Elida’s book, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!” If you’d like to hear my audiobook, it’s avaialable now here
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