Whitestone is Better Than the Laundry Room

By: Valerie Bryant Bennett

Sitting On The Dryer

Many people equate solitude with loneliness, and loneliness is rarely something we seek. Solitude is very different. It implies being alone, but not being lonely. I read once that no great creative work in art, poetry or music has ever come about without its creator spending long stretches of time in solitude. That makes sense, but solitude, for me, produces peace. There are times when the stresses and strains of everyday life wear me down, and when constant interaction with people (even those I love) drains me physically and emotionally. There are times when responsibilities and problems seem tangled in my mind, and, as my mother used to say, I need to “get the kinks out”.

When I was a single parent of three, the best I could manage at these times was to hide for five blessed minutes in the laundry room, perched on the dryer, praying and taking a few deep breaths. Those small children are adults now, so when solitude becomes as necessary as food or drink, I escape. My husband knows I will return a more amicable and refreshed person after two or three days.

Whitestone’s reputation as one of “The Most Romantic Inns in America” is well-deserved, but it deserves equal credit as a haven for solitude. When the mind and spirit are exhausted, a visit there alone can be a God-send. The scenery is breathtaking.  A walk on the grounds provides panoramic views of pastures and Watts Bar Lake, plus uninterrupted “think time”. The quiet there is healing, the staff warm and welcoming, and the food incredible.

Whitestone wonderfully maintains my sanity, and it certainly beats the laundry room.

rooom photo by: Maine Homeseller