Since 2004, I’ve survived the growing pains as Retreat in the Pines grew – from small retreats where I did everything myself to 2020, we have multiple retreat options led by myself and other talented instructors. The early years were difficult as I worked incredibly hard to keep the retreat going through financial challenges.

Now I'm growing as a leader, and still handling challenges. I’m so happy introduce you to our staff – the amazing women who make Retreat in the Pines a sanctuary for our guests. The kitchen job is not for the faint of heart. It is hard work on your feet, but the rewards are plentiful. Meeting and cooking meals for our guests. Now Morgan and Christina handle the duties and make it look effortless!

I often get asked how I did all the things I did - cleaning, cooking, teaching yoga and leading the retreat. Sunday morning brunch was the most challenging. I'd get up before 6 am, get the coffee going, empty the dishwasher, visit with guests AND prep the breakfast casserole. At 8 am I'd put the casserole in the oven and then run to the Yoga studio to teach. 9 am, back to the kitchen to take the breakfast casserole out and then dash back to the studio to lead meditation. I have NO IDEA how I did it all - but I do know - I am a person who gets things done. Put it in front of me. I'll do it.

I'm a firm believer in the Kelly Clarkson quote - "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger."

Nina and I practiced Yoga on a pergola on a Florida beach on vacation in 2014. I loved the sound of the waves as we practiced. The sound of the cars, not so much. I came back with the idea for a large deck nestled in the trees. Kaycee and Terry made my dream a reality, our Yoga Deck was finished in 2015. Made entirely of Trex which is recycled wood and water bottles. I love to look up, and see only tree tops and blue sky. I love the sound of nature out on the Yoga Deck. Tree branches gently moving in the breeze. Pine cones falling. Birds calling. Peace and quiet.

I was so excited when our Dining Hall opened in January 2018. Amazingly, Kaycee and Terry built it themselves from the ground up. I love the windows with the view of nature in every direction.

Kaycee works hard to keep our herb garden growing with basil, rosemary, thyme, sage, mint and more. All are used in our made from scratch meals. We have a strawberry patch and we hope to put blueberry bushes in in the spring.

Our Scholarship program has provided financial assistance for many women over the past several years. If you know of any woman who could benefit from our Retreat Assistance Program, please refer them to this information. In the past, we have provided retreats for single moms, women struggling with tragedy and grief, college students and women coping with health and other issues.

If you've retreated with us five times or more, you are an a part of our Retreat in the Pines Gratitude Club. There’s no cost to join and membership includes discounts on retreat and boutique purchases, early check in and so much more.

In October 2019 we celebrated the 15 year Anniversary of Retreat in the Pines with a party in Dallas. We will be doing it again in 2024 to celebrate 20 years!

Our retreats are not only about yoga, wine and laughter, but more importantly, our community of amazing women. Our retreats are for ALL women needing a getaway. No yoga experience needed. Our Mindfulness & Meditation Retreats are gaining in popularity, guests enjoy gentle yoga and guided meditation, plus tips on using mindfulness to find peace and joy. This is the perfect retreat if you find yourself struggling with anxiety and racing thoughts. Our Yoga Nurture Retreat continues to be our most popular retreat, plenty of free time to head into town to visit antique shops, art studios or a local winery.

Guests find compassion and encouragement in our community of supportive women. Our retreats are like adult slumber parties – with wine! Learn more about our retreat offerings here.

It is my honor and pleasure to do what I do. Thank you to each of you, our beautiful community of amazing and inspiring women who show up for retreats and nd for each other. I am grateful for your support over the years and your understanding when for the little hiccups along the way!