Time Alone

So what has been reconfirmed to me this year after living with 3 others and spending lots of time together (and don't get me wrong, that has been an extremely valuable experience) is that I need time alone to rejuvenate and reflect.  I feel refreshed and renewed when I take the opportunity to do my own thing, travel alone, or hike alone.  A hike out in nature becomes more of a spiritual experience when I'm by myself than when I'm with others, and I crave these experiences from time to time.  I'm forced to be alone in my own thoughts, the good and the not so good, and to learn to like myself enough that I'm not bored with just me for a few hours or a few days.  This is a good thing, I think!  Some photos from my last independent excursion...- Heather

Ahh, being in the woods. Being in the woods makes you realize the small, fleeting nature of life. It helps me rejoice in my place in the circle of life. Get off the internet, and go outside. See the Divine in every thing. See nature's perfectly imperfect garden. Breathe in the clean air. Feel the soft flowers, the cold water. Eat the fresh berries. Warm yourself in the afternoon sun. Live life in every moment.

I thought I’d write another short poem for the post

About our new housemate and a trip to the coast.

We have a new housemate – he’s name is Stephen

Now the numbers in the house are back to even.

He’s from Indiana, and got here this past Wednesday.

And  he seems to have  fit in right away

Stephen is volunteering at a dental clinic in Vancouver, Washington

And I’m sure you’ll hear much more about him before the year is done.

We took advantage of the Labor Day weekend

and went on a road trip out of Portland

We ventured to Saddle Mountain and the coast

The sights were beautiful – if I can boast.

 We had a good time with many good laughs

That’s it for the poem – but enjoy some photographs.

                ~ Chels