L.I.V.E. Intensive Experiences, Wyoming Edition
As most organizations do, we’ve crafted a mission statement to guide our efforts. At Paisley Project, our mission is to empower widows to L.I.V.E.—to navigate the profound transition following the loss of their husbands. Through evidence-based resources and compassionate coaching, we stand by widows as they journey through the following stages:
1. (L) Loss:
o We acknowledge the pain and grief, providing unwavering support during this difficult time.
o Together, we honor memories, validate emotions, and provide a compassionate presence during their darkest moments.
2. (I) Identity:
o As grief reshapes their lives, widows undergo a profound shift in their sense of self.
o We guide them toward rediscovering their identity, fostering self-awareness, and embracing their unique strengths.
3. (V) Vision:
o Through compassionate coaching and community, we help widows envision a new path forward.
o Together, we explore possibilities, dreams, and aspirations—crafting a vision that transcends grief.
4. (E) Engagement:
o Joy awaits beyond sorrow. Widows emerge from their grief journey with newfound wisdom and compassion.
o We encourage them to engage with the world—to contribute, connect, and find purpose in unexpected ways.
In short, we want to be the place where Widows Find Strength, Community, and Hope
One of the key activities we provide is our L.I.V.E Intensive Experiences. Although they are often called retreats, they are also so much more!
These 4-7 day events are held in beautiful private homes across the country. Group size is limited to 8-12 participants to preserve the intimate feel of the setting, and we incorporate many activities that we know help promote growth and healing, including time in nature, art and writing activities, hikes or yoga, individual massage, and nourishing food. (More on this in another post soon!)
We’ve spent time in a park-like home inCarmel Valley, California, a lodge in the Adirondacks, in a beach-side home in the Outer Banks, a mountain lodge in the Rocky Mountains, and, most recently, on a ranch in Wyoming.
After returning from the L.I.V.E. Intensive Experience in June, one of the participants, Suzanne Milani, wrote this about her experience:
In June I attended the Paisley Project retreat in Wyoming. It was the 2nd time I have attended a Paisley retreat, and I have to preface this by saying that the Paisley retreats are truly unique!
If you want to meet other widows, develop new relationships and feel a close connection to other widows. these retreats will not disappoint. From the incredible majestic views of the mountains and high plains, the delicious homemade food, the fun engaging activities and gracious hosts, this Wyoming retreat was amazing!
Everyday, Karyl McKendry planned a unique event. At this event, the activities were fly fishing and horseback riding. Walking, hikes, having a massage or just hanging out doing arts and crafts is always an option on the retreats. The retreats just flow!
One of my favorite parts of the retreat was when we were all hanging out and relaxing together doing crafts or a puzzle because the conversation was open and fun and thoughtful.
Another very helpful and unique part of the Paisley retreats are the guided lessons and reflection time as a group. In Wyoming it was a discussion around Paisley’s framework, the acronym, L.I.V.E. which stands for Loss, Identity, Vision and Engagement. These inspiring presentations offered us the opportunity to reflect and share some of our deepest feelings and worries with one another. I gained some new positive and helpful perspectives from the discussions.
I always leave the retreats feeling uplifted and like I made another “shift” in my journey as a widow.
The most wonderful part of the retreats is how loved and cared for I feel.
What more could one ask for, to feel pampered and loved and understood. Something we miss and need so much to help us through this difficult time in our lives.
We at Paisley Project couldn’t agree more. There is something magical about what happens at these L.I.V.E. Intensive Experiences.
Come see for yourself! We have two more Events planned for this Autumn. The first will be at Black Dog Lodge in the Adironcacks from September 25 to 30. (Click here to download the Adirondacks flyer.) The second will be at Persimmon House in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. (Click here to download the Outer Banks flyer.) This event spans the week of November 2 - 9th, and you can choose to attend for as many days as you’d like. For more information, check out our Events page.
We hope to see you soon!