A Much-Needed Reset: My First Solo Vacation

For the first time in a very long time, I gave myself permission to completely step away from work.

I recently took eight days off from work, spending them in a beautiful Airbnb in south Florida, just a couple of hours from home. Nestled on five secluded acres along the Orange River, the property felt like something out of a dream. Massive trees stretched overhead, pine trees swayed in the breeze, and the only sounds most days were birds, wind, and the gentle movement of the river.

Best of all, I wasn't completely alone. I brought my 11-year-old German Shepherd, Levy, with me.

If you know me, you know how much he means to me.

This trip was especially important because I realized something while planning it: I haven't truly taken a vacation from work in nearly a year. Nor have I ever taken a solo vacation by myself, without family or friends.

What many people may not know is that Rosewood & Sage isn't my full-time job—at least not yet. I work a full-time career during the day, and Rosewood & Sage has become my second job, fueled by evenings, weekends, and every spare moment in between.

But eventually, your mind and your body start asking for a break.

And honestly? I needed one.

The first day felt strange. I didn't have to be up at 4am, rushing off to my 8 hour workday. I wasn't coming home checking orders, thinking about my next project, or planning my schedule. Instead, I sat outside with Levy and listened to the trees.

The longer I stayed, the more I began to slow down.

I spent time enjoying the greenery, watching the river, and simply being present. There was something incredibly peaceful about being surrounded by nature with no distractions. The quiet gave me space to think, recharge, and reflect on how far I've come.

As the founder of Rosewood & Sage, creativity is a huge part of what I do. Sometimes inspiration comes from a new idea or a customer request. Other times, it comes from stepping away entirely.

This trip reminded me that some of the best inspiration happens when we aren't looking for it.

The colors of the landscape, the textures of the trees, the calmness of the river, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature sparked ideas that I can't wait to bring into future creations.

More importantly, it reminded me that rest isn't something we earn after we've exhausted ourselves—it's something we need in order to keep showing up as our best selves.

As I head home, I'm feeling grateful.

Grateful for the chance to unplug.

Grateful for the time with Levy.

Grateful for the peace, the inspiration, and the reminder that sometimes the most productive thing we can do is simply slow down.

Have you taken time recently to recharge? I'd love to hear what helps you find peace and inspiration when life gets busy.

— Brittany