Today's blog post author is the brilliant Kalah Amash, who joined our inagural Rest | Restore | Explore at l'Artesania retreat with her friend Lori in Spring 2025. Please join us in relishing Kalah's gift for words as she takes us on a journey to celebrate her birthday gift of her first European experience that turned into a love letter to Spain.
-Dee, Courtney, Holly, and Massi
When I turned thirty, I knew I wanted to honor the milestone in a meaningful way. I wanted to gift myself an experience — something new and adventurous, yet freeing and grounding. Even though my birthday was in February, the perfect opportunity was being curated for me in April when I attended the Rest, Restore, Explore retreat in Spain.
Lori, Kalah, & Courtney walking through beautiful fields toward an orchard for creative journaling
From the very beginning, everything about the planning felt effortless. It all fell into place as if it were meant to be. That’s how I knew it was a sign. 
Spain was calling, and I had to answer. Not only that, but I was able to experience being out of the country with two of my closest friends. So this was deeply personal and bigger than me.
Spain welcomed us with open arms.
I had a bit of apprehension at first about the idea of being nestled in L’Albi, a small countryside town — but its rolling hills, beautiful olive groves, golden light, and crisp air was a sanctuary. I felt instantly at peace, as if the earth wanted me to set down any burdens I had been carrying. Even when the power grid went out on our first day, nothing could stop our shine. Instead, we carried on, grateful for the still moments and quite literally being cut off from the world.
The magic was just beginning….
Grounding meditation at l'Artesania
Our hosts and facilitators, Courtney, Holly, and Dee, created such a warm and intentional space, and I will always be grateful for the way they guided us and were attentive to our wants and needs, giving us a perfect balance for play and reflection.
Lori, Dee, Kalah, Courtney, & Holly dining in a Braseria's cozy cave in Terragona
Every adventure felt like discovering a secret Spain wanted to share with us. Montblanc’s medieval walls, Tarragona’s Roman ruins perched beside the sea, the sacred stillness of Montserrat and breathtaking views, the charm of Lleida, the awe of Poblet, and the hidden beauty of Prades. Each place whispered a different kind of wonder.
Dee, Lori, Courtney, and Kalah at Poblet Monastery
And then there were the everyday joys that somehow felt extraordinary. Chocolate croissants that made me close my eyes with the first bite. Local wine savored at lunch, and dinner and in between ;). Espresso that felt like fuel for the soul. Spain, you have a way of making even the simplest pleasures unforgettable.
Delicious croissants and coffee
But what made it truly special were the people. I was surrounded by the most beautiful souls. We laughed until our stomachs hurt, shared stories, sang songs, and became more than just a group — we became a community. In those moments, I felt lighter, freer, and deeply connected not only to those around me but to myself.
Lori, Kalah, and Courtney enjoying the Mediterranean
Spain, thank you for holding me, for teaching me to rest and restore, for reminding me to explore with open eyes and an open heart. Thank you for giving me a birthday gift that wasn’t about a day, but about a season of stepping into my next chapter with joy, courage, and gratitude. ❤️
Kalah
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