Summer in the City

As you can see, we're enjoying summer in Boston. This is the first summer we're not traveling all over the place -- we're trying to take it easy and truly enjoy what Boston has to offer in the warm weather. We're really loving it. We've been to one Red Sox game so far, had one mojito (okay, maybe two), gone on long summer walks around the waterfront, "grilled" hamburgers on a Friday night (okay, it was on our stovetop grill, but it counts!), and had an Emack & Bolio's ice cream cone after a trip to the aquarium (today).

We're looking forward to more bike rides, going to the beach next weekend in Duxbury, a 4th of July picnic, fireworks, lobsters at Woodmans, caprese salad with fresh tomatoes and basil, sunburns, and a boat ride on a hot day.

Father of Grace

On Father's Day I am reminded, of course, of the joy my earthly father brought me while he was living--for the 26 years I knew him. He was truly a unique soul and brought joy to those near him. His legacy will surely continue, and I will never stop loving him.

But this Father's Day I am even more impressed by the love of my great Father in Heaven. In the past few weeks I have been meditating on Psalm 34 and Psalm 103 and am ever reminded that only He redeems me. Earthly fathers can bring us joy and happiness; they can bestow many gifts upon us; they can care for us and love us--but only our Father can heal us; save us; and give us the eternal gift of life. I am so thankful this day for my Father who redirected me from the path I deserved and brought me to this life. I am thankful that He never stops working for my benefit, and that He satisfies all my desires. I am thankful for His ceaseless compassion and perfect grace.

The Great Outdoors

This weekend I went on a camping trip with my church--about 20 of us. It was exactly what I needed after a long week at work. (Note: Paul "doesn't camp," so I was solo.) We lounged by the campfire, hiked a woodsy trail, played frisbee on the beach (and glimpsed some seals diving near shore!), enjoyed a soft-serve ice cream cone, grilled up burgers, sat around the campfire some more, had a s'more-making contest (I like to think I won the prize for "gluttonous"), and *tried* to sleep in the great outdoors. A crow woke me up from the half-hour of sleep I got at 4:47am and that was it for the night.

Living in the city I am so far removed from the things of nature--and my soul was really craving it. Just driving down to the Cape provided the first dose of relaxation I needed. The turns and curves and the fresh sea air were calming. Walking through the woods and running on the sand were soul-satisfying in a way I don't often get in the city. Enjoying time with people--both nourishing older friendships and starting new ones--I was instantly energized. Even after a restless night, I feel ready for another week in the city, but now I am longing to return to nature sooner than I had planned.