Live a Meaningful Life

  I can't wait to tell you the story of this picture! But first things first. Our week started off with more biking, hiking and exploring. We have ridden this trail almost daily since we have arrived. It goes from our campground to the White Water Center that commemorates the 1996 Olympics. The kayaking events were held on the Ocoee River that year.  The bike trail follows the river, and we absolutely love the view of our playground!  There are calm peaceful stops.   And there are action parts, full of untamed power.   On Friday the boys wanted to return to Smiley's (their favorite swimming spot). The water is freezing by the way and the temperature is warm--not sweltering!  Looking at this, makes me shiver!  While the boys explored around in the water...  Johnny and I did what all great parents do. We found a nice warm rock, relaxed and chatted! One of the things I have had a hard time doing is getting back into a school routine.

Since we have arrived, I can say that one of the most refreshing things about this move has been the slow pace of life. My only obligations: checking in on my online class and making sure the bathrooms here are ok! Having time to sit without a constant to-do list swirling in the brain is a gift I do not want to take for granted. I sat for an hour in the grass today, and the boys and I created scenes with lego and cars. I was fully present.  As for activities, we have been biking and doing just a dab of hiking almost every day. This was from our journey yesterday. We have already met lots of neat people from several places, including FL and Puerto Rico We sleep with the windows open to hear the water rushing over the rocks and feel the crisp morning air of the mountains. This is what I see when I look of our windows. I love sitting on the rocks along the river as I sing, pray, and read.  We visited another church last night. I tell you, I am getting some nuggets of