We now officially have two sons with driver's licences: they can drive without supervision. Steve and I are taking full advantage of this new miracle of our sons being able to do us favors for a change.
For example: the other day, Steve and I put our kayaks in the bay just before sunset. We started paddling and were so blissed out that we decided to kayak all the way to Teddybear Cove near Bellingham. After a short phone call to our sons, we coordinated with them to pick up the truck and get us at the cove, which required that the two of them drive.
By the time we got near shore, it was pitch black with only a tiny sliver of moon. Our sons blinked their flashlights at us so we could see where we needed to go. As I sunk my paddles into the inky water, I fought back tears because this felt so momentous: our sons guiding us safely to shore, picking us up, keeping us safe.
Ever since moving away from our beloved Marblemount wilderness and down into the Skagit Flats, we've spent as much time on the salt water as we can. It's magical here. It's a whole different wilderness, one I'm not as familiar or comfortable with, but I vow to change that by exposing myself to it as much as I can.
I burnt the heck out of my thighs a few days ago, which left me with blistering, second degree burns and an inability to walk much. But I can sit in a kayak and use my arms, and so I do, even in the pitch black if need be.
We try to incorporate our kids into these adventures as much as they let us. For the boys, of course, it's not particularly cool to hang out with their parents and paddle around in little boats that don't involve speed. We tell them that it's a great upper body workout, so they consent to come with us, especially when there are lavish picnics involved.
And Eva doesn't quite have the muscles yet to brave large stretches and distances of water. But she gets to sit in the canoe (I traded that canoe for coaching sessions years ago), and one of her brothers and Dad paddle for her, while she sits in the middle like a Queen, chatting and singing the whole way.
I love these times on the water with my family. I know the days for this are numbered, with them surely flying the nest one by one.
And you? How are you doing? What are your favorite activities to connect with family?
Love everything but especially love the geology (I'm a geology buff). My daughter is 28 and recently she said "Mom, do you need any money?" I about burst a blood vessel. This, coming from a kid who was pretty much circling the drain at age 19. I am so proud as I'm sure you are. We go outdoors, too. Big Sur was our most recent outing. Peace and love to you! - Renee
ReplyDeleteI love Big Sur. And did you take your daughter up on your offer? ;)
DeleteI love Big Sur. And did you take your daughter up on your offer? ;)
DeleteHow wonderful! As much as I love being up in the valley in Marblemount area, I do miss the salt water! Thank you for always taking us along on your adventures! I had an offer a couple years ago to go kayaking with friends. Maybe when Covid is under control I can take them up on it.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how fast our kids grow up, isn't it? My foster son will RETIRE from the military in 2 more years!! I swear it was only days ago I was buying him the supplies for a recipe he learned in school or found online that he wanted to make for me. In my family, we share books and music. Easily enough since so much is online these days. My Heart Sisters and I send each other links to free books or special offers on authors we love. In my Heart Family many are essential workers or compromised immunity so we've had limited time in person due to essential working so much and compromised making sure to social distance. Blessings on your family time and many many more memories ahead! We miss seeing you all up here on your bicycles!!
I love the smiles on Eva's and your faces! Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures. It is good to know that your family is embracing this new chapter in your lives.
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