My favorite memories are the ones with my kids. I do not think I’ve been happier than when I’m just sitting and watching my kids embrace life. There’s nothing better than hearing my children laugh. I am looking forward to returning to the beach with them; but hopefully this time without all of the rain. Who am I kidding? I live in Washington state, I’m better off just hoping for no fog.
Words of wisdom from my son today. #TBT of our 2012 Christmas trip over Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. I remember that we had a horrible blizzard that week, and they had just re-opened the highway. Friends warned us about driving over; yet, when we got to the top of the pass, hardly anyone else was around, and it was just so beautiful everywhere we looked.
Hours before our drive, I had learned my brother had taken his own life. I felt like darkness was looming all around; yet, when we reached the mountain pass, I can still remember the warm glow of the light, as if he was telling us that he was okay – he was at peace. I wish I could have saved him from his darkness, but I will always remember the beauty of the light I saw that cold, December day, and I will always remind myself that when navigating through darkness, light will eventually start to appear.
In the meantime, I will always try to learn lessons from those darkest moments. The light will then be more rewarding once it arrives, and I will be able to share its incredible warmth with others journeying down the same path. I know it’s cliche, but I have always enjoyed life more by dancing in the rain.
Spending the weekend on my computer catching up with my portrait proofing. When I start to get cabin fever, I just look at the photos and remember how blessed I am to have my office mainly in the mountains of the beautiful Cascades. Counting my blessings today.
You fall, you rise, you make mistakes,
you live, you learn.
You’re human, not perfect.
You’ve been hurt, but you’re alive.
Think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive
– to breathe, to think, to enjoy,
and to be with people you love.
Sometimes there is sadness in our journey,
but there is also lots of beauty.
We must keep putting one foot in front of the other,
even when we hurt,
for we will never know
what is waiting for us
just around the bend…
~ Unknown
JustJamie 