Staying - Blog Posts
I’m not crying... I just got something in my.... Oh man this freaking sad and beautiful and sad and heartbreaking and sad.
I’ll write a fic of this someday... but first.
*Starts to cry*
how do you think Lightning will react about if Sally dies suddenly ? I'm feeling a little down right now
Oh…. oh. Wow. Okay.
Well I hope you feel better soon, anon. I don’t know if this will help or make it worse, but I hope somehow it helps you out.
Everyone thought he took Doc’s death hard. That was nothing compared to this. When they heard the news, he started screaming and swearing, completely turning into someone else the townsfolk had never seen.
He just leaves town without saying a word. He can’t take seeing it without her. She was the one who really made him appreciate it to begin with.
No one sees him for three or four days, no one knows where he went. Turns out, he drove up into the mountains and just sat in isolation while he mourned her. He couldn’t bear being around anyone.
He makes it back for the funeral, but doesn’t speak. Everyone is trying to provide what comfort they can, but it’s like talking to a brick wall. She was his life. Nothing, not even his racing career, was as significant as her.
Afterwards, he spends a lot of time at her grave. They buried her near Doc. He tries to talk to her to ease his conscience, but he can’t say anything without breaking back into into sobs.
He tries to find someone to blame for his pain, but can’t. He can’t control his thoughts and goes back and forth between being vehemently angry and unbearably anguished.
He’s torn between leaving Radiator Springs for good and staying. It all reminds him of her, and it’s painful. But at the same time he knows she’d want him to take care of it now that both she and Doc were gone.
He never goes to visit Wheel Well again. He can’t even look at it. He still supports and manages the operation, but he’ll never go back. He makes a point not to look at it if he has to drive by it. That was sacred ground for them as a couple. It’ll never be the same.
He treats the Cozy Cone motel similarly, although he still stays there. He hires on an old friend to keep it running so he doesn’t have to do it himself. Going into the office was hard to take. All the decor was still as she’d left it.
A couple weeks later, Mater finally gets him to talk. He doesn’t respond much, but it’s an improvement. Mater doesn’t push him, but he does say something that strikes a chord with Lightning. “Forgetting her won’t make it [the pain] go away.”
Lightning was given similar advice when Doc died, and he knew that he needed to honor her in a similar manner. He decided that he wasn’t going to leave town. That town was her everything, and if that’s all he had left of her besides memories, he was going to do whatever he could to support it.
Later on, he tries to focus more on racing, but it’s not quite the same. He still does well, but he finds himself pushing himself to the limits a lot more and thinking a lot less. It’s not a good strategy, and his eager spirit is just gone. He misses seeing her there in the pits waiting for him.
It takes several months for things to return to any degree of normality. The town is still much quieter, as Sally’s bubbly, optimistic personality isn’t there to supplement it anymore, but everyone at least functions again.
Lightning eventually remembers how to enjoy himself and have fun again. He spends more time with the other members of the town and even with his racing buddies. He’s gotten to a point where he can think about her and not feel overwhelmed by her absence. There’s still a void in his soul, but it’s one he intends to keep, in memory of her.
Sustainable Accommodations: Best Eco-Lodges and Hotels Worldwide
The way we travel has a profound impact on the planet. One of the best ways to reduce your environmental footprint is by choosing accommodations that prioritize sustainability. Thankfully, eco-lodges and green hotels around the world are leading the charge in eco-conscious hospitality. From lush rainforests to urban oases, here’s a guide to some of the best sustainable stays that promise comfort, luxury, and care for the environment.
1. Soneva Fushi – Maldives
Nestled in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi is a luxurious eco-resort that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The resort is powered by solar energy and features a world-class waste management system. Guests can indulge in stunning overwater villas, dine at zero-waste restaurants, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, knowing their stay supports sustainability.
2. Fogo Island Inn – Canada
Located on a remote island off Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn is an architectural gem committed to sustainability. This eco-conscious retreat uses locally sourced materials, supports the island’s economy, and reinvests its profits into the community. With breathtaking ocean views, a cozy Nordic aesthetic, and locally inspired cuisine, it’s a haven for eco-conscious travelers.
3. Treehotel – Sweden
If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse, Treehotel in Sweden is the place for you. Each uniquely designed cabin is suspended among the trees, offering stunning views of the Swedish forest. The hotel operates with a minimal environmental footprint, using renewable energy and sustainable building materials.
4. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve – South Africa
For those seeking a safari experience with a sustainable twist, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in South Africa is a must-visit. This eco-lodge supports local conservation efforts and community programs while offering luxurious accommodations. Explore fynbos-covered landscapes, go on guided nature walks, or enjoy fine dining with farm-to-table ingredients.
5. Hoshinoya Karuizawa – Japan
Located in a tranquil forest in Japan, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a resort that exemplifies harmony with nature. Powered by geothermal energy, the resort offers serene hot springs, minimalist Japanese architecture, and locally sourced cuisine. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and sustainability.
6. Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel – Switzerland
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel offers a unique glamping experience in geodesic domes. The pods are energy-efficient and designed to minimize their impact on the environment. Guests can enjoy stunning alpine views, hike through pristine trails, and embrace the beauty of the mountains.
7. El Nido Resorts – Philippines
El Nido Resorts in Palawan is a stunning example of sustainable tourism. Surrounded by turquoise waters and lush jungles, the resort operates with solar energy, marine conservation programs, and eco-friendly designs. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring hidden lagoons, all while preserving the natural beauty of the Philippines.
8. Lapa Rios Lodge – Costa Rica
Lapa Rios Lodge is a true eco-tourism pioneer, set in the heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. This lodge protects over 1,000 acres of rainforest, supports local communities, and uses sustainable practices in its operations. Guests can immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying eco-luxury at its finest.
9. Camp Glenorchy – New Zealand
Located near Queenstown, Camp Glenorchy is New Zealand’s first net-zero energy retreat. It incorporates sustainable building practices, solar power, and rainwater collection systems. Guests can enjoy cozy accommodations, stunning mountain views, and a deep sense of connection with nature.
10. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay – Vietnam
Six Senses resorts are known for their commitment to sustainability, and Ninh Van Bay is no exception. Perched on a remote bay in Vietnam, this resort combines luxury with eco-consciousness. From farm-to-table dining to marine conservation programs, it offers an indulgent yet environmentally friendly escape.
Why Choose Sustainable Accommodations?
Staying in eco-friendly accommodations doesn’t just enhance your travel experience—it helps protect the planet. These lodges and hotels prioritize energy efficiency, reduce waste, support local communities, and often reinvest in conservation programs. By choosing these options, you contribute to sustainable tourism and ensure that future generations can enjoy these incredible destinations.