It’s like the after-party of the season, after the crazy heights of Summer and the crescendo of Velika Gospa, we move to the chill-out phase; it’s quieter, softer, but still filled with magic for those who stay.

I feel it in the air today, summer lingers, the nights still warm, but with less noise as the tourists disperse, there is a natural slowing down, and every evening just feels touched by gold as we can finally breathe again.

Autumn is just around the corner and probably my favourite time of year for Croatia, a time often referred to as “Bablje Ljeto”, or Grandma’s Summer.

I’ve often wondered where this phrase came from, and there are mixed responses, but one poetic theory ties the term to the delicate spider silk threads driving through the air in Autumn – this gentle, web-like mist evocative of a grandmother’s grey hair.

As a 52 year old, when I could easily be a grandmother had I followed that path, yet with no grey hairs, I take exception to this description, and instead I’ve concocted my own theory.

My idea is that this is the Babas favourite time of Summer.

The kids have gone back to school, the families have left the coast and gone back to the city, and we can savour the beauty and flavours of Croatia without the height of season hurry and heat.

The figs are ripening, the grapes are being the vines, and we we are reminded that sweetness is not in indulgent but in grounding.

It also seems to suggest that stage of transition in a woman’s life, like the sunset of sunset of Summer, when we are no longer required to be in the role of child-bearer,  but not quite ready to hang up the dancing shoes quite yet.

I’ve long stopped seeing this time of my life through a negative lens, and instead it feels rather magical. As a woman I have this sense of stepping into my own power, unapologetically and authentically, harnessing all the wisdom I’ve accumulated over the years and using it to live a more simple, yet fulfilling, life.

There has been a natural slowing down, but at the same time, I’m not letting my age hold me back from doing all those things I’ve always wanted to do. I feel more wild and free than ever before, and nothing excites me more than to be a guide for those who choose to come and join me here in this place I have found home.

It’s part of the reason that I host most of my retreats in this season. For women like me, it’s our time! It’s the magical extension of summer’s warmth, when nature slows, the sea is still inviting, and the sunsets just take your breath away.

If you’d like to join me you have 3 options in the coming weeks:

*Luminaries Summit, September 16th – 22nd, Pine Beach, Pakostane.

*Wild Women Holiday, September 27th – October 4th, Cavtat, Dubrovnik Riviera

*Yoga & Nature Retreat, October 5th – 12th, Korinjak, Iz island

Don’t expect any crazy “height of summer” antics, strict protocols, or gruelling classes.

I’m not here to teach you. 

I’m not here to tell you how to live.

I’m only here to help you remember who you are…and that this is your time.

Big love 

G