A Time Out that Gave Me Strength & Joy

In spring 2015, I was able to spend a short break with the Schwaiger family at Zittrauergut. A health setback, a stroke, had completely turned my life upside down. I wanted to broaden my horizons and gain new experiences away from health worries and work stress.

My joy was great when the Schwaiger family welcomed me without prejudice or hesitation, and we embarked on this little adventure together.

I was able to have many wonderful experiences with Katharina. I particularly enjoyed the beautiful nature around the farm, the family’s cohesion, and the warm-hearted friendliness in everyone’s interactions. I gladly cooked lunch for the large family on the wood-fired stove, which was completely new and different from what I was used to, and I really enjoyed it.

Katharina’s garden is a dream; I was able to take home some useful tips.

I was also allowed to help with the animals and serve farm-fresh products to guests for breakfast. I was impressed by the whole family’s contentment with what they have and everyone’s openness.

Even today, contact with the Schwaiger family continues.

Two weeks of time out flew by, and although it was quite strenuous for me, I was able to find more peace and relaxation than in my everyday life at home. THANK YOU for this valuable time in my life!

Afterward, my partner and now husband visited me, and we spent another wonderful week of “holiday” at the farm, exploring the beautiful area.

During hikes, we could enjoy nature and relax. Contrary to all predictions, I had a daughter three years later, and as a small family, we would like to visit Katharina and her family again as soon as we get the chance.

THANK YOU for your contribution, dear Jasmin! I am always very happy when contact with the ladies on retreat and interns doesn’t break off, and we hear from each other, and the time on the farm does so much good. Lately, there’s been more salad on the lunch table again, and Jasmin’s dressing often comes into play. Good, simple, and quick to make – we’d love to share it with you:

Jasmin’s Salad Dressing
Stir 1/2 tsp salt with 1 tbsp vinegar, add a little mustard (1/2 tsp), 1 tsp sugar, and 2 tbsp high-quality oil. Stir everything together and add 3 tbsp sour cream or yogurt, as well as fresh chopped garden or wild herbs. Season again with salt, pepper, and sugar if necessary, and mix with washed salad.

I wish you a good time, see you soon! Katharina Schwaiger, Zittrauerhof Gastein