this is now
2.27.2015
valentine's day
2.19.2015
I've never been a fan of Valentine's Day, or at least the marketing that seems to define what it should be for most people, but this year Valentine's Day felt really special. In fact, it may be our new favorite "holiday." It felt like a day just for us. We woke up early as usual, made coffee - warm milk with nutmeg for Thor - and exchanged small gifts with each other. Then we drove down to our old favorite beach at Otter Rock. The sun was warm, shone brightly, and everything was in color once again. It was like spring, a gift in itself. No ridiculous jewelry, no expensive shows of "love." Simple, honest, easy, without pretense. Just us, together, happy, in a place we love. I would wish for nothing more.
My sister and brother-in-law visited us this past weekend and it was so nice to have them here. We hung out at home for the most part, but while my brother-in-law had conferences to attend Saturday the rest of us drove up the Clackamas River for a bit of outside time. Picture taking, stone skipping, stick whittling, rock hunting, and cairn building commenced. Soon the rains came and we headed back home to the woodstove, books, blankets, conversation, and a delicious meal made by my wonderful husband. It's amazing how guests can make your house feel so much more warm and cozy, and wonderful when those guests are family who love and support you and you love and support right back.