In March 2012, I attended a Women’s Retreat entitled: ‘Blossom Where You Are Planted’.  It was held in at the Tulip Inn Hotel, Hawar Island Resort, Bahrain.  This resort is approximately 70 km from Bahrain International Airport.

We arrived by speedboats (a 16 seat speed boat and a larger one) to the island, which took about 30-45 minutes.  Wives, mothers, friends, daughters, sisters, aunts, career women, homemakers.  This was a time to relax, get to know each other and just be. Which was just as well because there really isn’t much to see (no offence animals) on this island.

All staff were friendly and welcoming.

Arriving at the hotel.

Main entrance of the hotel.

In between the activities which included discussions  on topics of interest in small groups, acting, singing, dancing and other musical entertainment, I ventured around the island.

Me, myself and I.

This scene is so peaceful and almost like a postcard. Yes remember that small piece of card people used to send to each other when they were on holiday to let them know they were thinking of them? Yes you might have to think hard as they are a dying tradition but there are a few of them around if you look hard enough!

We had arrived in ‘low season’ so there were more animals to see than people! No literally, there are animals all over the island, if in a sporadic capacity.

Who do those hens think they are? Well I think we’re on their patch love.

Can I go play over there mum?

I’m bored. Shall we do something else?

Now where has he gone?

Are you sure we’re going the right way?

I did try and tell you that you were going the wrong way.

My feet are aching. Do you think it’s much further? Are we lost?

Where is everyone else?

I think we’ve lost a few of them. What do you think?

What shall we do now then?

Do you think you can walk a bit more slowly?

I was just saying …..

A bus trip allowed us to see animals who were sited further afield.

Just follow my lead love.

Oh! Oh! Humans around, better hide!

No escape. What you looking at. Okay I’ll smile for you. Here, Cheese!

Thank goodness the humans have left. Now where did I put my dinner?

Back again? Is this pose good enough for you? Now leave me alone!

A very good time was had by all and the food was lovely.

We left the retreat feeling inspired, with renewed hope and deepened appreciation of where we can bloom. Looking afresh at what we can do next to stay focussed on our plans and purposes in life.

Ok. That’s goodbye from me too. I’m watching you. Get on with your ‘soul purpose’ please.