It's been a tough week. Really tough. Like I think I might not have any tears left in me tough.
But... see this? That's a beach. And a lake. And those feet are mine. We went camping this weekend, and it was just what I needed. I didn't think I should go, because I have so much to do, and I tried to convince Brandon to just take the boys, but luckily he wouldn't listen to me. (What else is new? ;) This time it worked out for my good, though, so I'm thankful.
I still feel weepy, but I also feel hope. I know that things will be okay, even if it doesn't seem like it at times. How could you see beauty like I've seen this weekend and NOT know that someone is watching over you?
We found a beautiful camping spot, and ate delicious food, and relaxed. Then we relaxed some more, and the kids played catch (Aubrey practiced pitching).
Then Brandon gave me picture challenges. He would tell me something I had to take a picture of, and the challenge was to make it interesting. Here's my sagebrush... I had a little help from the sunset, but there are no rules in this game! ;)
This is the view I woke up to. Oh, it was pretty... and the weather was perfect. I can't wait to go again.
When we got back today we showered and got ready to go to a dinner party at Jessica's house (a girl who works with Brandon). It was for everyone at work, but we were the only ones who showed up. They all totally missed out, because the food was delicious (she had prepared it all herself) and they live in an amazing place. They have a little cabin up in the mountains with gorgeous views and a little farm. I felt so at home, and I loved it. I even loved their dog... a huge St. Bernard named Tiny. How cute is that?
I loved this shy cow. She wouldn't come out to let me take her picture.
We watched tons of hummingbirds come to these feeders. Cooper was fascinated by them. He also had a fun time teasing the neighbor's hound with his s'more (yes, we made s'mores over the fire JUST AFTER we had all washed off the previous day's campfire smell :). Anyway, he'd move it back and forth, up and down, fast and slow, and that dog followed it with his head every time. We were all laughing... it was so funny. He did finally give the poor dog a bite.
I made Brandon stop on the way home to take this picture. It just sums up everything I'm feeling today. Peace. Reflection. Hope. Gratitude.
Brandon just left to work far far away. We're all so sad, and we miss him already.
Luckily I've got my kids to keep me company. And the dog. Thank goodness I've got the dog. (For all you dog lovers out there... that was said with sarcasm. I didn't know if you'd catch that. ;)
My freckled boys will take care of the dog and the lawn.
And keep me in smiles all the time. (There's a touch of sarcasm there too...)
Good thing I just gave them haircuts... or I might've mistaken them for two cute puppies.
