Floating

 

One of the things I love most about vacation is the opportunity to be outside. My favorite outside involves a beach. I’ve found the ocean soothes the soul and inspires like nothing else.

But I also love the mountains. And lakes. And the woods.

It’s so good to take a moment to slow down. Step outside. Free your mind. 

I almost typed no phones, no Wi Fi. But I do love my phone for taking pictures. It’s a handy little thing. However, I have an explicit agreement with myself to not look at anything else on it. Instead, be present. Enjoy the moment.

Today was a great day outside. I started the day outside with coffee on my favorite porch swing at our vacation house. Then I went for a good run on the Sunriver trails. They are plentiful, easy to navigate (even for me!), and take you to beautiful views. Today I chose a river view. Other days I’ve stayed in the woods. Either way, it’s peaceful and exhilarating. Even with a bit of altitude weighing on your lungs.

This afternoon my sister-in-law and I took four of our kids on a rafting adventure on the Deschutes river. Truth be told, it was more of a slow float. With rafts tied together and plenty of beverages and snacks. There were lots of laughs, some terrible singing, and about half of the rafts ended up in far worse shape than they started in. But it was a beautiful day outside. Floating under a blue sky.

I always make an intentional effort to soak it up. Looking up. Enjoying.

Today I didn’t really understand anything better, per the Einstein quote above. Although I have found nature brings understanding many, many times in my life.

But today I also didn’t think about much. Instead, I just enjoyed.

Life is really good floating on a river, under a brilliant blue sky, with people you love.