There are those moments for me when I'm out in God's amazing creation that I feel so absolutely at peace. I realize that this busy world and all the things that don't really matter take so much away from what really DOES matter! I had a few of those moments during our family camping trip to Orcas Island this past week. The trip lived up to every expectation I had and then some! We had gorgeous weather, enjoyed the camping life, watched our kids fall even more in love with the outdoors, and returned refreshed and a bit more connected as a family. :)
Brian and I have wanted to kayak in the puget sound for at least 10 years... we even have our own kayaks, but somehow never felt secure enough to head out into unsettled waters. (well, Brian was ready, I just wouldn't go!) We had the best date night we've had in years... we took a moonlight kayak tour out among some of the smaller islands, watched the sunset and the moonrise. It was absolutely breathtaking!!! As I sat in that kayak with the man I love more each day God gives us, watching one of the most beautiful sunsets He's ever painted, I had one of those moments. I felt overwhelmingly blessed and taken care of. I had a moment of clarity that I wish I could wake up with each morning, because it causes me to live differently... to live for what matters: Faith, family, kindness, selflessness... It was a gift. My goal now is to hold onto that moment and let it challenge me to GROW in my faith, patience, and relationships.
Here are a few pictures... I wish I had taken one of Leah playing with the slugs... it was creepy, but so darn cute! :)
We had a blast splashing around at Cascade Falls.
Our campsite was super for exploring and climbing. :) The kids loved it!
Oh, the giggles!
It was wonderful to have Brian's folks with us! The kids LOVED the ferry rides!
We found a great little beach that was about a mile hike in. We found starfish, clams... and even a water snake! This was one of the best days we had!
One of my favorite things in the whole world is the feeling of 'home' at the end of the day... the smell of freshly bathed kiddos, blankies and cuddles, cozy snuggles and knowing that we have a warm, safe, blessed home. I pray that my children will always look back on these moments and know they are so very loved!
Camping is one of the best ways I know to relax, get out of town, and enjoy family and friends! There's something about the mountain air, water, campfires! We had a great weekend with our friend Carla. We played, caught bugs, played in the river, ate smore's and took a monster hike! Well, any hike is a monstrous one when you haven't done it in awhile! :) We went to Beverly campground in the Teanaway and hiked on the Iron peak trail. Leah and Leif did so well - 3 miles up (and I do mean UP!), and 3 miles back with something like a 2800 elevation gain. Brian was a trooper, wearing the Kelty pack with 25 pound Leif in it the whole way... while Leah kept a bright and energetic attitude despite the challenge. I was very pround of my little ones, and will remember the day always. When we got to the top, the view was breath-taking. One of those moments where I don't understand how people can't see God in all of it. It was beautiful. Mt. Raineer to one side, and Mt. Stuart to the other. I know that there are many more hikes in our near future. Great idea, Carla! :) (and my sore legs only lasted a few days!) Here are some pics from our camping adventure!
I love this picture... it's Leah hiking the last few steps of the trail. She really didn't know what to expect. When she got to the top, her face lit up and she shouted "WOW!!!"
