It’s not so much a dream, as several waking dreams fulfilled now that we are back out in the world and able to see friends and family. We are cautious, but roaming about the cabin if you will. I thought it high time to share some notes from my personal journal with you all. Isn’t that what strengthens community? A sense of sharing?

I’ll start with a couple of birthday photos (mine! I’m happily still 32) and then images from my niece’s wedding. She was married in Asheville and we were the photographers and our son, Finley was the ring or ringlet bearer.

Finley enjoyed another year of swim lessons and we three, itching to get out, had some fun local adventures. It was just so good to be silly outside and less stressed than this time last year.

We took a vacation break and went to Wilmington. It was Finley’s first beach trip and the weather was perfect. Great sunsets and wonderful time with family. You forget how much you love the salty air and feel of sand (everywhere!!) until you’re back there. We are true lovers of both the mountains and the sea. And now, so is our kid.

We also had a ball visiting Savannah as a family. Putt putt RULES, and is Finley-Approved.

Back at our beloved home base, we have occupations that I never think of as chores. One of those is gardening. Squash with their gorgeous blossoms, garlic, herbs and beans all end up picked, washed and in my kitchen. I love the air and the mindfulness of gardening and we love eating what we grow. I hope my son feels this too. Right now, the play time and horticulture Q&A between he and I is plenty.

We’ve also been busy with building a pole barn on the family farm. This is decidedly NOT gardening and zen like. This requires measuring, focus and moving under your own steam even when you’re tired. It feels good to see progress and know that we also had time together working toward a common goal.

It’s only mid-July, you guys. We’re hip-deep in summer, and I love it. I’m reminded that a summer day has the same number of seconds as a day in late November. The question is – how am I to use each second?
Right now, I’m feeling lightening bugs. I’m going to go outside and look at the lightening bugs. How bout ya’ll?