Beauty

Recently I was reminded that the world is full of beauty.

Over the last few weeks I enjoyed a fantastic spring break in California.

I spent several days enjoying this view in Palm Desert from our vacation rental’s pool.

Surrounded by family, good tunes, and great books. These are blissful days.

Each morning started with gorgeous views and palm trees for my morning run.

As usual, I reflected that I would be in amazing shape if each morning were so pretty. If you live in such a place year round, I’m sure you have days where you aren’t motivated. Maybe? As a visitor, it feels like you could never, ever get tired of it.

After five days of poolside slothing, we drove a few hours to Del Mar beach, outside San Diego.

I went for many walks on the beach, often with my daughter, who loves the action.

It is so pretty. I love to watch the waves crash against the cliffs. And there is something about the ocean – more than anything on earth – that just brings me a sense of peace.

Once back home, Seattle put on one of its great shows as it does in the springtime (some days).

An abundance of sunshine. Beautiful views. It sets my mind at ease, my heart happy, and I’m surrounded by a blanket of calm.

And then…a few days ago, I saw this:

It is quite possibly the world’s most beautiful flower. Growing in my front garden. Truthfully, our landscaper planted it when our newish yard was planted. I literally have nothing to do with its existence. But it caught my eye in its perfection.

And I was reminded that beauty can be found everywhere. Every day. We just have to open our eyes, pause, look around, and take a moment to appreciate it. When we do, that same sense of peaceful happiness can surround us. Wherever we are.