Each summer iGnite hosts a girlfriend getaway called a Monarch Escape. These adventurous yet relaxing vacations serve as an opportunity for women to partake in new and fun experiences while enjoying the camaraderie and companionship of one another. This summer we spent six days and five nights in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina on what we called, the Smoky Mountain Adventure.

 

Our retreat began in the Hart House, a large six bedroom country style home nestled in the Cane Creek Valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each day began around 8:00 a.m. and was chock-full of activities such as rock climbing, white water rafting, mountain biking, zip lining and hiking, followed by happy hour back at the house, a delicious dinner and the best part of all — candid and open conversations about the day and life.

 

After having hosted four Monarch Escapes, there’s no doubt that the best part of each getaway is the fellowship and opportunity it gives attendees to recharge their batteries. Not only do we all return home feeling exhilarated, confident and full of energy, but the bonds and friendships formed leave you feeling nurtured, supported and loved….and who can’t use more of that?!

 

Check out what a few of this year’s attendees had to say about their biggest takeaways from the trip:

“One of my favorite takeaways from the trip was spending time with new people that I did not know very well or at all before the trip…I truly enjoyed hearing everyone’s “story.” It is very comforting to realize that we all have some common threads as women, moms, wives, friends, sisters, etc.  It is so inspiring to hear the things that other women in our group have achieved and overcome in their lives. I just loved our nightly dinner talks that spurred these great conversations!”

-Jill Watts

 

“During our 100 ft vertical rock climb, we belayed each other. When I was up about 50 feet clinging to any ledge I could find and a little scared, I looked down at JoAnn, who had my rope and my life in her hands.  She said, “I got you, Kathleen.”  I had no doubt that I was going to be fine! I love the “support” we get from each other in iGnite — LITERALLY!!!

-Kathleen Parker

“I’m really thankful I was able to share a week of my life with such kind, adventurous, inspirational women.  I stepped out of my comfort zone and I came home with renewed confidence.”

-Annemarie Glover

 “You never know what you are capable of doing until you try it. It is easy to say no, but when an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone comes your way, say yes and go for it!”

-Nancy Dacy

 

Interested in attending a future Monarch Escape with iGnite?
We would love for you to join us!  Visit our website for details about attending future trips.

Click here to see more photos from the iGnite Smoky Mountain Adventure on Facebook