As I travel, I often find myself experiencing a peculiar sensation. It's as if parts of me are scattered across different flights, waiting to be reunited. It takes about 24 hours for me to settle in and feel completely integrated again, physically and mentally.

I recently visited family in Vermont, and the experience reinforced this feeling of fragmentation. The long flight followed by an arduous drive with two small children left me feeling a bit uneasy, dis-easeful even. But amidst this unease, I realized something: I carry my home with me wherever I go. Home isn't limited to a physical place; it resides within me, in my thoughts, memories, and connections. This truth brought a sense of comfort and grounding during those transitional moments.

Behind the scenes, I'm working on the new collections of peel-and-stick seals, which hopefully will arrive this month. The new collections have been divided into a series philosophies so that you can seal your letters with deep meaning and intention. In traveling this week, I felt two particular motifs resonated with me; so I decided to do two seals of the week instead of one...

Wholeness

This seal depicts a snail with the inscription, "Always at home." It reminds us that we carry home with us. We are already home. We are already whole.

Wholeness refers to a state of completeness and integration within an individual. It encompasses the idea of embracing all aspects of oneself, including the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions. It is an inner sense of being whole and connected, free from fragmentation or a sense of lacking.

Achieving wholeness involves acknowledging and accepting all parts of oneself, even those that may be perceived as undesirable or challenging. It is a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance, aiming to cultivate a deep sense of authenticity and self-integration.

 Unity

This seal portrays a snake divided into multiple pieces, accompanied by the inscription, "Se rejoindre ou mourir" (Join or die). This imagery evokes a powerful message about the importance of unity and collaboration.

Unity refers to the interconnectedness and harmonious coexistence of different parts or entities. It emphasizes the notion of oneness and highlights the inherent connection and interdependence among elements. Unity recognizes that everything is fundamentally linked and part of a larger whole, whether it is individuals, communities, or the entire universe. It underscores the collective nature of existence, acknowledging that our actions and choices have an impact on others and the world around us.

Featured Wax Color - Zephyr

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In Greek mythology, Zephyr was one of the wind gods known as the Anemoi, each representing a cardinal direction. Zephyr specifically personified the gentle west wind, carrying the sweet fragrance of spring and the promise of new beginnings. Often depicted as a young man with wings, Zephyr had the power to influence the movement of air and was associated with calm breezes and tranquil weather.

The story of Zephyr intertwines with the concept of homecoming, symbolizing the return to a familiar place, person, or state of being. One well-known tale involving Zephyr is the abduction of the mortal princess Chloris, who later became the goddess Flora. Captivated by Chloris' grace and charm, Zephyr whisked her away to a remote meadow. There, he transformed the barren landscape into a vibrant garden teeming with colorful flowers and fragrant blooms, a testament to his love for Chloris.

This myth highlights the transformative power of homecoming. When we return to a beloved place or reunite with loved ones, it can bring about profound change within us. Homecoming represents a sense of belonging, restoration, and the rediscovery of our true selves. Zephyr's actions in the myth demonstrate his ability to create a harmonious environment, mirroring the beauty and tranquility often associated with our own homecomings.

Furthermore, Zephyr's association with the west wind carries additional symbolism. In Greek mythology, the west was regarded as the realm of death, where the sun set and vanished beyond the horizon. As the god of the west wind, Zephyr embodies the journey back from the unknown realm, signifying a return to familiarity and comfort. His presence in the myth serves as a guiding force, leading Chloris back to her rightful place, both physically and metaphorically.

A forever favorite poem

Whilst traveling in New England last week, I remembered one of my favorite William Carlos Williams' Poems, Nantucket. I love the feel of safety, comfort and beauty he describes in his hotel room on Nantucket. Located off the coast of Massachusetts, Nantucket is often exposed the harsh forces of the Atlantic, especially in winter with large waves and rough seas. The visual of "the tumbler turned down" create a sense of safety away from home that I hope to find even when traveling to less hospitable places than Nantucket.

Nantucket by William Carlos Williams

Flowers through the window
lavender and yellow
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changed by white curtains –
Smell of cleanliness –
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Sunshine of late afternoon –
On the glass tray
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a glass pitcher, the tumbler
turned down, by which
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a key is lying – And the
immaculate white bed

Your's truly

Kay