Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Simple Things




The past few weeks have been the highlight of our year! Being involved in so many things has it's rewards, but the simple things in life are what bring us the most joy. We had an amazing time of enjoying each other, reflecting upon God's goodness and setting new priorities for our family.

It all started with a camping trip to Morningstar. Morningstar has become a summer tradition. I'll admit... the thought of going this year without our camping trailer WAS NOT appealing! I actually told Jason that I thought I'd let the guys have their own trip and I'd stay home and have "girly time". Of course, nobody liked this idea and they talked me into going. I'm so glad that I did, as they treated me like a princess! I did NOTHING but read all weekend (and enjoy the FABULOUS cooking). I can totally get used to this NEW summer tradiiton!

After our camping trip we were off to Lake Tahoe for Jason's brother's wedding. The weather couldn't have been more beautiful! We soaked in the sun on the beach and visited with family that hadn't been seen in years (some we met for the very first time). Oh... and the boys showed everyone how it's done on the dance floor at the wedding. SO CUTE!!

We were home for about a day and a half before we left for Mendocino for a couple of days. What a beautiful place... So peaceful and romantic. Yes... I did say romantic... even with three boys. That says something! We didn't soak up much sun there as it was pretty foggy and cold, but it was such a nice break. The air was clean and fresh. Everything was green and dotted with flowers of every type and color. We strolled beaches, hiked to lighthouses and played together. It was such a blessing to our souls. There's something about the ocean. You breathe deeper there and whatever "load" you carry is immediately dropped and left in the sand. Our room at The Little River Inn ( I highly recommend this place) was perfect! Outside our room was a deck with two oversized rocking chairs overlooking the ocean. Jason and I cuddled up in those chairs while the boys hung out inside each night that we were there. The boys called it our "date" spot. I felt like it was heaven on earth!

The best part about this time together was that it was just simple. There were no extras. No camping trailers... just a tent. No fancy hotels in Tahoe, just a little cozy room and an entire beach that God put there for us to enjoy. No five star gourmet restaurants in Mendocino, just pizza in our room while cuddling with our boys and each other. The smell of the eucalyptus trees and the ocean air is enough to intoxicate you. It puts you in a state where everything feels good. Life slows down and the faces around you that you see everyday somehow look different.

I'm so thankful for this time that was set aside for us to "refresh". These simple pleasures and moments are priceless, aren't they? I pray that each one of you has the ability to set time aside to enjoy something simple... there's nothing else like it!

** If you've never turned your volume up while checking my blog, now would be a great time! :0)

1 comment:

Lift Up Your Hearts said...

Thank you for your thoughtful comment on my blog! I loved visiting yours too - what adorable boys you have, and you're right, we do have a lot in common! I'll stay in touch for sure!