One of my favorite places...

Everyone should have a favorite place. The best part about one of my favorite places is it is less than 15 minutes from my house! One of the dearest families in the world owns this beautiful piece of property. They don't hoard it, instead they want friends to enjoy this beautiful place God has given them.

On Friday, we had planned to go canoing. Our kids haven't ever been and it was going to be a great Dad's Day activity. Several things came up and in short, we decided it was best not to go. The kids were disappointed but handled that well. Anyway, they golfed in the morning, swam in the afternoon, and that evening I packed a picnic and we went out to one of our favorite places...

I couldn't help but pick up colorful leaves...and take pictures of the fauna...





We borrowed a kayak and everyone took a turn!









How many rocks have been thrown in this swimming hole?




After we ate our picnic, the kids got another chance in the water. I sat in the swing and journaled. Something about being a participant in a memorable moment, makes me want to record it so I can remember everything later. Here's my record of the evening:



My family- in one of my favorite places on earth! It has finally cooled off so the sweat isn't dripping down my back- the kids are having timed kayak races. We are talking in sweet words and level voices. Sheridan is throwing rocks into the water. The sounds are lulling my heart toward peacefulness - I'm not even sleepy! God is here!

Ryan just came up to the hanging swing where I'm sitting alone - to check on me, and get a quick back scratch! He's all about needing to be close to the ones he loves and I love it!



Each big kid is on their second trip around the rock in their kayak - trying to beat their own time. Competition between the siblings has taken a back seat to personal bests. Ahhh.

Dinner was great - appreciated. Veggies from the garden with our sandwiches. And fresh pineapple, strawberries & blueberries for dessert. Ice cold water tastes like a specialty out in the heat!

Thank you Lord for this moment!

Laughter.
The sound of rushing water!
Encouraging words!
Blooming flowers and trees!
Loving Dad!
Happy Mom!



Do you have a special place? Why do you love it?