It’s Almost Here…

I read my 1st article of the season about gratefulness yesterday and it flipped the switch for me. I think I am ready to enter the Fall season. I am aware that many schools across the country have already begun but here in Oregon, we do not go back to school until after Labor Day. It’s kind of nice since August and September are our two best weather months of the year.

I was a bit worried I wouldn’t be ready for summer to end. Living on the Oregon Coast does not provide a ton of opportunities for warm weather so when the warmer season comes around, I cherish every single second. I am grateful we were given so many opportunities to enjoy warm weather this year. The beginning of Summer found us in Phoenix and San Diego visiting family. Shortly after this, we spent a week in Myrtle Point, at the Coos County Fair with our kids as they readied their sheep for auction through our local 4H program. On a side note, I have to mention that we have the best 4H program ever. The local businesses come out in droves and generously support these kids, many of whom are trying to earn money for college. Auction day is amazing and a great reward for all those who get to participate. Best of all? Myrtle Point is 45 minutes south and inland from us, so it’s warm.

After fair, we spent the next two weekends camping on two of the most beautiful rivers in Oregon. The Rogue and the Umpqua. Our son squealed in delight as Jerry’s Jet Boats came screaming by on the Rogue and went out of their way to spray him with water. I’m not sure who enjoyed it more, Bridger or the passengers. While on the Umpqua we floated calm waters in inner tubes and kayaks as well as snuck in a few hours of fishing. The rivers?  Inland and warm. Are you sensing a theme here?

These adventures led up to last week which I posted about here. School registration begins this week, along with eye Dr. appointments, sports physicals and hair cuts. My dad is coming to visit for a few days next week and then we are off for one last camping adventure over labor day weekend. I am hoping for warm.

The article on gratefulness came at a perfect time. With Mr. Wonderful’s hand surgery last week we have had several hours of down time and moments to reflect on all that has occurred over the last few months. We have a lot to be grateful for. We have been able to spend a significant amount of time as a family which doesn’t happen as much during the school year due to kids activities and tax season. Don’t get me wrong, we have meals and attend events together but there is just something about leaving it all behind for a few days, floating down a river and sitting by the campfire. It’s togetherness in a whole different way.

I began dreaming of these moments on December 31st, 2014. We had gotten off track and lost our sense of family and fun. When I was forced to stop and given ample opportunity to reflect on our life and the direction it was heading, I made a vow that when I was healed, all would be different.

Look at us! Here we are, living. It’s not extravagant by any means, in fact, most memories of this summer involved a camp trailer, floaties for the river and marshmallows. Okay, the water park in Phoenix was pretty great as well. The point is that for the 1st time in many years we spent Summer, together. We laughed, played, worked and even shed a few tears as no season no matter how great is perfect. But overall it was wonderful and the glow of these memories will keep me warm during the next few seasons.

Have a Fabulous Day My Friends!

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