People often remark about the incredible things they discover while traveling. Yet, sometimes, just getting out the door proves difficult.

Early last year a client was introduced to us through the recommendation of a travel agent. This woman had discovered that over the years she had sequestered herself away from people, events and challenging herself. She had never ventured out of the country and without a destination in mind, sought a vacation to shake off the shackles of her limited life. She acknowledged although she had lived on the same cul de sac for years, she had yet to meet any of her neighbors. Her world felt as though it was getting smaller and she knew it was time for a change. The New Year was an ideal time for a resolution. Her agent suggested a journey with SKYIN might be just the thing to shed the old and welcome the new – it was time for an adventure.

She traveled across Kenya on a 13-day excursion experiencing the wonder of indigenous tribes, exotic safaris and beautiful beaches. Without any awareness of what to expect, she was enchanted by the villagers of the Maasai and the Mijikenda, welcoming her as though she was a long lost friend. Caring for each other, their devotion to community demonstrated what she had overlooked; the significance of the smallest deed or thoughtful gesture on behalf of another, had tremendous impact. Experiencing their customs and traditions, dancing, and sharing their native food, all proved to ignite a slow burn of lost freedom, a burgeoning of joy.

Her excursions on safari showered her with life long memories – animals roaming in their natural habitat, lions deafening roars, giraffes loping across the plains, elephants and exotic birds at watering holes and countless snapshots of timeless moments pushing her to wonder, “what’s next”?

The beaches of Mombasa afforded time to reflect and rejuvenate, while the warm Indian Ocean provided ample sea life to discover. Each moment seemed to build upon the other, giving her confidence to return home and continue her transformative awakening.

It was time to start her life again and never look back.

She recently reached out to our founder, Skyler Mason, to share her personal metamorphosis. Her story captivated us all. The cathartic experiences in Kenya had roused an adventurer and she was celebrating life anew. Not only had she met and become friends with her neighbors, she became actively involved in community projects. She had joined numerous organizations that stirred her heart and was choosing to make a difference in the lives of those around her. No longer willing to stay in the shadows, she embraced life.

This was living.

Last modified: July 18, 2025