Sometimes you just have to take a break for a few hours, even when there is a list a mile long of things that need to be completed. Such was Christmas day when both KBJ and I needed nature to clear our heads and sooth our hearts. We had both lost dear friends this past year. Right on the heels of one, I found out that my high school and college bestie, and maid of honor at my wedding died along with her husband and two of their friends in a small engine plane crash. I was stunned. These are the kind of days where your heart and stomach move up into your throat and cause a lump so big that you know you are going to slowly suffocate from sadness. These are the times when nature can truly work wonders, helping you sort through your thoughts and fears, and restore ones equilibrium.
Sometimes you just have to take a break for a few hours, even when there is a list a mile long of things that need to be completed. Such was a day a couple when both KBJ and I needed nature to clear our heads and ease our hearts. We had both lost dear friends this past year. Right on the heels of one, I found out that my high school and college bestie, and maid of honor at my wedding died along with her husband and two of their friends in a small engine plane crash. I was stunned. These are the kind of days where your heart and stomach move up into your throat and cause a lump so big that you know you are going to slowly suffocate from sadness. These are the times when nature can truly work wonders, helping you sort through your thoughts and fears, and restore some balance. The Northern California coast does it best for both KBJ and me, but sometimes it is not possible to go the distance, and we are fortunate to have our own mountain vistas so close to home. I would like to share some of the photos we took. On this particular trip I have never seen the mountains look so blue, especially in winter when usually the blue hues of the ridges have dulled to gray for weeks on end and even these mountains beg for the mercy of spring.
I still am in the process of taking down xmas decorations. We took the two live trees down soon after New Years as the needles were falling off. I am slow getting it done because I have decided that I need to re-organize the xmas tree room again, narrow down the decor and ornaments to those that really mean the most. Tough, as you know how I love xmas and one tree has never been an option. Downsizing in general has been a work in progress, but the holiday decor hasn’t been tackled in years. I ordered some wreath storage and other items and when they come later this week, I can truly get going. Always something to do! laters, charisse
. The Northern California coast does it best for both KBJ and me, but sometimes it is not possible to go the distance, and we are fortunate to have our own mountain vistas so close to home. I would like to share some of the photos we took. On this particular trip I have never seen the mountains look so blue, especially in winter when usually the blue hues of the ridges have dulled to gray for weeks on end and even these mountains beg for the mercy of spring. This day was cold and clear and exceptional. Every visit, even to the same overlook, is always different. I hope you enjoy.
We brought Carter & Whitley with us. They love to drive in the van. Whitley gave us “the look” for interrupting her watching for squirrels and deer so we could take her photo. Carter? He’s always the cool dude, chilling’ on the seat.
I still am in the process of taking down xmas decorations. We took the two live trees down soon after New Years as the needles were falling off. I am slow getting it done because I have decided that I need to re-organize the xmas tree room again, narrow down the decor and ornaments to those that really mean the most. Tough, as you know how I love xmas and one tree is usually not an option. Downsizing in general has been a work in progress, but the holiday decor hasn’t been tackled in years. I ordered some wreath & garland storage items and when they come later this week, I can truly get going. Always something to do! laters, charisse
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I love all your post they are inspiring and lovely as well as informative but the pics of the furbabies set my heart aglow. Please more pics of the furbabies!!
Love, love, love this!!! Firstly, you know how much Robert and I love mountains! I love rocks, mountains and woods! Also, these photos are amazing, not to mention the beautiful story that accompanies. We are so very sorry about your friends in the plane!! You and Keith have really endured some heartbreaking weeks
lately! Yet, you are always so present for the comfort of others. 🌹
The Wendell Berry piece is definitely my favorite style of poetry! It reminds me of a Robert Frost jewel that I memorized many years ago.
These two pick me up and release me into this stressless, pristine cradle of nature…no sorrow
aloud.
And lastly, your precious pups!!! It just does not get any better than this!! (Whitley is sporting quite the personality collar.)
I will often read this post!
Thank you again, Our Dear Charisse ♥️