“I mean hate and love and fear and wanting to live and wanting to see your children live,” she said. “Those are the things that shape our consciousness, not the material goods, not whether the tables are made of oak or synthetic plastic … The thing isn’t important. It’s the human emotion — and that, I believe, doesn’t change.” Geraldine Brooks
For a week, I had the privilege of watching my children and their children live and love and play. My son-in-law loves the Pacific Northwest. He and my daughter have been vacationing there each year for 5 years. This year, we were invited to tag along. Then my middle daughter Katherine decided to come along with her son, Thomas. We were missing my youngest daughter’s family so much that we are talking about making next year’s trip a full family one.
Highlights include short hikes to waterfalls…
Tidal pools…
Watching eagles, fire pit, views of Olympic mountains…
Watercolor painting with Stella…
Throwing rocks…
And playgrounds…
At the end of our trip, we stayed a few nights in Seattle and met up with my husband’s brother and his family which includes a new great niece.
I’m happy to be home to my dog, my bird feeders, flowers, walks with friends, but I will carry the love and life and memories with me.
Reflections on the Teche 
Margaret, that is one big slice of heaven right there. I see it in the pictures and in the landscape. I can taste it in the coffee and smell it in the fresh mountain air. Seattle has its own vibe, and I’m with your son in law and his love of that particular area of the country. I’m so glad you made so many great memories. The photos are absolutely priceless. And watercolor painting is such fun at all ages – – I’m glad you can share this love of art with Stella.
I’ve never been to the West Coast, but I’d love to go! This slice showcases a wonderful family trip…the love, the adventure, the togetherness. I enjoyed reading every word.
This is one slice of family love and magical memories for all. I have never been to the Pacific Northwest, but you make me want to go.
Margaret,
Thanks for bringing us along. Looks and sounds like you made a lot of memories, as my Mom used to say.
Margaret, so fun to see pics of my Pacific NW home: Marymere Falls, playgrounds, mts, tidal pools. I love it all! What a wonderful place to spend time with your family! Love the pics you shared.