# Peaceofmind.y ## Posts - [Winter Finds Me Where I Am](https://peaceofmindy.com/winter-finds-me-where-i-am/): The days are shrinking again, and the sun slips away before I’m ready. Winter always arrives like a hush, cool hands on my shoulders, a soft reminder to slow my steps, to slip into the quiet I’ve been avoiding. I light a candle, wrap myself in blankets, watch the frost lace the windows, and something in me settles. There’s a peace in this season a peace I never used to understand a permission to rest without guilt, to move slower, to let the world dim without disappearing with it. And even on the hard days, the tired days, the “I’m […] - [Wind, Waves & Lobster Rolls: A Perfect Portland Escape](https://peaceofmindy.com/wind-waves-lobster-rolls-a-perfect-portland-escape/): Whether you’re starting your day with the crisp morning air, soaking in the golden glow of an afternoon, or watching the sun melt into the horizon, a Windjammer cruise offers a timeless way to experience Maine’s coastline. Sailing for two hours aboard one of Portland Schooner Co.’s majestic windjammers feels like stepping back into a simpler time where the wind dictates your pace, and the world is framed by sails and sea spray. As the schooner glides through Casco Bay, you’ll be treated to views of lighthouses, wildlife, and rugged shores, all while enjoying your own food and drinks (yes, […] - [Stillness & Sunrise: Experiencing Magic on Casco Bay](https://peaceofmindy.com/stillness-sunrise-experiencing-magic-on-casco-bay/): Casco Bay Lines in Portland, ME runs cruises year-round, each offering a unique way to experience the ever-changing beauty of the coast. The sunrise cruise, though an early 5 AM start, is a quiet kind of magic and worth every lost minute of sleep. There’s something special about watching the world wake up from the water. The sky shifts from deep blue to soft pastels, then to the golden glow of morning, each moment more breathtaking than the last. Arriving in Portland before dawn, the city feels hushed, like it’s still wrapped in a dream. But by the time the […] - [Showing Up in My Skin, Anyway](https://peaceofmindy.com/showing-up-in-my-skin-anyway/): This piece was originally written as a therapy prompt, one that asked me to explore how I show up in my body and how to speak to myself with love. It felt vulnerable to write, and even more so to share, but maybe you’ve felt some of this too. I may share more of these soon, small windows into the quiet, honest work of being human. Not because I have the answers, but because I believe in the power of showing up as we are. Some days, I feel like a stranger in my own skin. Like I’m watching myself […] - [Ovens Mouth Preserve: Where Solitude Meets Scenic Beauty](https://peaceofmindy.com/ovens-mouth-preserve-where-solitude-meets-scenic-beauty/): Tucked away in the quiet embrace of Edgecomb, Maine, Ovens Mouth Preserve feels like a place the world forgot, untouched and unrushed. The 3.5-mile loop winds through a landscape that hums with stillness, where towering pines sway with the breeze and the Back River moves in its steady, endless rhythm. The trail splits into two paths, East and West, each leading deeper into a world where dappled sunlight filters through the trees, and time feels like it moves differently. A wooden footbridge invites pause, its weathered planks holding the quiet footsteps of those who have wandered before me. Along the […] - [Whispers Between the Pines](https://peaceofmindy.com/whispers-between-the-pines/): The earth hums in quiet rhythms, A song too soft for the rush of the world. I listen, not with my ears, but with a heart That has learned to breathe without fear. The trees stand as quiet witnesses, Their leaves speaking in languages older than time. And I, a small ripple in the vastness, Find comfort in their steady silence. I wander these paths as if the ground knows me. Each step a conversation. Each breath a release. The wild air wrapping me in its arms, Teaching me to soften, To trust again. There are no answers here, Only […] - [Healing Isn’t What I Thought It’d Be—But Maybe It’s Better This Way](https://peaceofmindy.com/healing-isnt-what-i-thought-itd-be-but-maybe-its-better-this-way/): I used to think healing would be loud. That one day I’d wake up and everything would feel lighter,like the pain had vanished, like I’d finally arrived somewhere whole and finished. But it doesn’t work like that. Healing, I’ve learned, doesn’t show up all at once. It drips in slowly,through small, quiet moments I used to overlook. In the way I speak to myself on the hard days. In the way I let my body rest without guilt. In the way my cats curl up beside me when I don’t know what to do with the ache in my chest. […] - [La Verna Preserve: A Trail of Stillness and Salt Air](https://peaceofmindy.com/la-verna-preserve-a-trail-of-stillness-and-salt-air/): Some trails demand endurance, while others simply invite you to slow down, breathe, and take in the world around you. La Verna Preserve in Chamberlain, ME, is undoubtedly the latter. This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail winds through peaceful forests, over quiet streams, and eventually unveils a breathtaking stretch of Maine’s rugged coastline. With minimal elevation gain, it’s not about the climb. It’s about the journey, the solitude, and the rhythmic pull of the ocean just beyond the trees. From the very start, the trail offers a sense of quiet wonder. Passing through a private property easement, it gently reminds hikers to […] - [A Season to Bloom](https://peaceofmindy.com/a-season-to-bloom/): There’s a stillness in the air, just before the first bloom breaks through, as if the world holds its breath, waiting for something new to begin. The cold lingers like a memory, but the earth knows it’s time to wake up. And so it does.the ground softens, the air warms, and the sky whispers of what’s to come. I, too, have waited.Held myself in the quiet space of change, afraid to push forward, afraid of what I might lose. But like the buds that reach toward the sun, I too am learning to stretch, to open, to trust that growth […] - [Bradbury Mountain: Finding Beauty in Winter’s Grip](https://peaceofmindy.com/bradbury-mountain-finding-beauty-in-winters-grip/): Bradbury Mountain has always been one of those trails that feels like a breath of fresh air. Quick, easy, and rewarding. Tucked away in Pownal, Maine, this 1.4-mile loop may not be the tallest peak, but it offers just enough elevation to feel like you’ve earned the view. It’s an easygoing trail, perfect for a laid-back morning or an afternoon escape, with well-marked paths that make it nearly impossible to get lost. What I love about Bradbury is how welcoming it is. Families, solo hikers, trail runners, and birdwatchers all find their space here. The park itself is well-maintained, complete […] - [The Mountains, the Ocean & the Art of Letting Go](https://peaceofmindy.com/the-mountains-the-ocean-the-art-of-letting-go/): How Nature Became My Sanctuary I didn’t go looking for healing in nature. I wasn’t someone who grew up hiking or instinctively knew that the outdoors could offer me something more than just a nice view. I was just… lost. Trying to figure out who I was. Trying to make sense of things that had broken me in ways I didn’t fully understand. Then, in the middle of it all, the world shut down. The pandemic came, and everything that had already felt heavy became unbearable. I know I wasn’t alone in feeling that way. Isolation does something to you. […] - [Travel Entry No. 01 — London, England](https://peaceofmindy.com/travel-entry-no-01-london-england/): London greeted us in its own quiet way. Not with anything dramatic, but with soft light, old buildings that felt steady and familiar, and that calm hum a city carries when it’s been lived in for centuries. Even before we fully settled in, something about it felt comforting, like a place that holds a lot of stories and doesn’t mind sharing a few. We only had two days here, but they unfolded slowly. Morning walks through green parks, the sweep of Buckingham Palace, cozy cafés tucked into corners, and those red buses passing by in their steady rhythm. It wasn’t […] - [Blueberry Mountain: Discovering Beauty Beyond the Summit](https://peaceofmindy.com/blueberry-mountain-trail/): Situated away in the quiet town of Stow, Maine, Blueberry Mountain offers a hike that feels like a little escape from the noise of the world. This four-mile out-and-back trail climbs 1,190 feet, leading you through dense forest before opening up to sweeping views. Depending on the season, wildflowers may line the path, adding unexpected pops of color along the way. It’s a dog-friendly trail, so if you have a four-legged hiking buddy, they’re welcome to join, just be sure to keep them leashed. Whether you’re craving crisp mountain air, a bit of a challenge, or simply the peace that […] - [Merritt Mountain: A Hidden Gem with Breathtaking Harbor Views](https://peaceofmindy.com/merritt-mountain-trail/): Merritt Mountain, hidden quietly in Sebasco Estates, ME, feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. The 2.1-mile loop trail offers a moderate challenge, with just enough of an elevation gain (229 feet) to get your heart pumping but not overwhelm you. It’s the kind of hike where you don’t feel rushed, the pace is yours to set. This trail doesn’t boast grand peaks or dramatic vistas, but what it does offer is something far more precious: a peaceful retreat into nature. The reward? Stunning views of the harbor that unfold slowly as you walk, inviting you to pause, breathe, […] - [Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary: Finding Stillness Along the Trails](https://peaceofmindy.com/hamilton-audubon-sanctuary-trail/): Some trails challenge you to push your limits, while others invite you to slow down, breathe, and simply exist within the moment. The Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary in West Bath, ME, is undoubtedly the latter. Nestled within 93 acres of protected land, this 3.1-mile loop meanders through whispering forests, sun-drenched fields, and quiet coastal marshlands. With just 167 feet of elevation gain, there’s no rush, no urgency. Just a gentle path unfolding beneath your feet, encouraging you to notice the small wonders around you. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t ask for effort, only presence. Whether you come for birdwatching, […] - [Winslow Memorial Park Nature Trail: A Peaceful Oceanfront Escape](https://peaceofmindy.com/winslow-memorial-park-nature-trail/): The Winslow Memorial Park Nature Trail in Freeport, ME, feels like an invitation to slow down and embrace the stillness of nature. At just 1.4 miles, this loop is a gentle journey through Maine’s coastal beauty. Unhurried, serene, and perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat from the bustle of everyday life. The terrain is soft and forgiving, making it an ideal escape for those new to hiking or anyone looking for a simple, peaceful walk. As you move through the trail, the world seems to pause, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and a chance to reconnect with the […] - [Maiden Cliff: A Sunset Hike with Breathtaking Lake Views](https://peaceofmindy.com/maiden-cliff/): Maiden Cliff, in Camden, ME, is a 1.7-mile loop that promises both a challenge and a reward. With its 731-foot elevation gain, the trail offers a moderate climb that feels just the right balance, not too easy, but not overwhelming either. It’s the kind of hike that invites you to push just a little, to feel the burn in your legs as you climb, but also to savor each moment along the way. We started our hike from the Turnpike Drive trailhead, but the beauty of Maiden Cliff is that there are multiple ways to approach it. Whether you begin […] - [Hermit Island: Exploring Rocky Coastlines and Hidden Ocean Views](https://peaceofmindy.com/hermit-island/): Tucked away along Maine’s rugged coastline in Sebasco Estates, Hermit Island offers a 3.8-mile loop trail that feels like a secret, waiting to be discovered. The trail weaves through a mix of serene woodlands and sweeping ocean views, inviting you to lose yourself in the beauty of the natural world. With an elevation gain of 285 feet, the hike strikes a perfect balance, not too demanding, but enough to feel like a gentle challenge. Whether you’re yearning for a peaceful walk by the sea or an adventure through coastal forests, this trail offers a little bit of both, each step […] - [Tough Times Call for Beautiful Measures](https://peaceofmindy.com/tough-times-call-for-beautiful-measures/): Life isn’t easy. It’s full of challenges, negativity, and pressures that can make it hard to stay true to ourselves. We’re often caught up in trying to meet society’s standards or comparing ourselves to others. We might feel like we need to be happy all the time, or constantly moving forward, but the truth is that life includes ups and downs, and that’s okay. We all experience difficult times, negative thoughts, and moments where we feel stuck. But it’s important to remember that we’re human and we’re allowed to feel, rest, and express ourselves authentically, no matter how that looks. […] - [Cliff Trail: A Serene Coastal Hike](https://peaceofmindy.com/cliff-trail/): Located in the coastal town of Harpswell, ME, the Cliff Trail is a serene 2.2-mile loop that invites you to step into the beauty of nature. As you follow its path through dense forest, over rugged terrain, and along dramatic cliffs, the trail unfolds like a secret, revealing its quiet charm with every step. With an elevation gain of about 200 feet, the hike offers a moderate challenge, balancing steady woodland paths with short, steep climbs that leave you feeling accomplished. The real reward, though, lies at the end. A stunning overlook, creating a breathtaking view that feels both wild […] - [Potts Point Preserve: A Relaxing Walk Along the Maine Coast](https://peaceofmindy.com/potts-point-preserve/): Potts Point Preserve in Harpswell, ME, is a quiet sanctuary—a gentle 1.1-mile out-and-back trail that invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythms of the coast. With just 62 feet of elevation gain, the path is an easy stroll, welcoming walkers of all levels. But what truly sets it apart is its solitude—the kind of stillness that lets you breathe deeply and feel connected to the world around you. As you walk, the sweeping views of Casco Bay unfold before you, with distant islands floating in the horizon like quiet sentinels. The trail doesn’t rush you; […] - [Hedgehog Mountain: A Short Hike with Big Views](https://peaceofmindy.com/hedgehog-mountain/): Nestled away in Freeport, Maine, Hedgehog Mountain offers a quiet 2.9-mile loop. A perfect escape when you need to lose yourself in nature for a while. With a gentle 301-foot elevation gain, the hike feels like a slow unfolding, with each step drawing you deeper into the heart of the forest. The trail feels welcoming to all, whether you’re just starting out or seeking a peaceful afternoon with your dog (leashed, of course). And though the hike is short, the reward is more than worth it: a summit view that becomes even more magical as the sun begins to set, […] - [Dear Past Me—I Forgive You](https://peaceofmindy.com/dear-past-me-i-forgive-you/): Dear past me, I want to start by saying, I forgive you. For so long, I blamed you for everything that went wrong, but I realize now that wasn’t fair. You did your best with what you had, and you tried to navigate life with a strength I didn’t always understand. You made choices based on what you knew, and I’m sorry for holding that against you. I know it wasn’t easy. I know you felt lost, like you weren’t safe, and like your feelings didn’t matter. You felt small and unheard, and I can’t imagine how difficult that was. 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