'Til Monday: The Ebb & Flow Of Life

Processed with VSCOcam with c1 preset I've admired this cactus from my car window for some time.  Yesterday, I finally decided to stop and take a closer look.  With many years behind it, there are signs of times when it struggled to grow and also of times when growth seemed effortless.  I was taken by the strength of its massive trunk, the calluses on some paddles and the vibrant green of others.  This week has been a bit challenging both personally and professionally.  My children are fully engrossed in school and I miss them.  Work seems stagnant.  We've all caught colds, and I feel distant from family.  Getting up close to this cactus made me realize that there are ebbs and flows in everything we do and that patience, faith and forgiveness are vital to us all.

This weekend I'm taking note of where I am and what I need to address without forgetting who I am and what's most important in my life.

Here's to a weekend of accepting life's ebbs and flows...

cactus psd

 

'Til Monday: Exploring Russian Gulch

At this time last weekend, we were camping in Mendocino at a spot called Russian Gulch.  Together with Alex's cousin and aunt we explored a small part of northern Cali's majestic seacoast.  This particular area is made uniquely beautiful by the Frederick W. Panhorst bridge, which frames the shoreline creating a dramatic introduction to a secluded beach.  Once there, our twin boys and Loki (our free spirited dog) ran amok, while Zoe's sole intent was to build a mini rock and seaweed village.  We did some kayaking around the rocky ledges among the giant seaweed and were rewarded with the most amazing views.  Moments such as these, i.e.:  away from home routines, disconnected from work and technology, are both craved and treasured by us as a family.  Here's to another weekend of exploration and escape. Hope you all have a great one, too!

Soon I'll share one of the amazing meals we prepared over the campfire at Russian Gulch.  Seriously, if you want to eat well while roughing it, camp out with us.

Many thanks to VK for sharing one of her most favorite camping spots with this wild bunch!

'Til Monday: Happy Summer

For the past 2+ weeks, we've been visiting family and friends on the East coast, some of whom we haven't seen for an entire year.  Regardless of how much time goes by, reconnecting with them is always easy, a true testament to good and lasting friendships.  Today we're off to Maine for a few days, where we'll spend time with two dear friends:  JG and Henry (our bestie canine friend).  I can't wait to share images of the things we've been up to, like touring the Gropious House, swimming in Walden Pond and working (yes, working!) on a CHD project.

I hope everyone is enjoying a "Happy Summer".  Do share your escapades with me!

Follow along here to view daily snapshots of our summer adventures in the making.