Ni Hao Y'all

when east meets south

a journey

We’ve walked this trail before. But never in the late spring. In fact, we hadn’t even moved this time last year.

I tried to leave my camera at home. Obviously, I failed.

I remembered how beautiful it was last time we ventured through these woods

But on this trip, our littlest family member was with us.

Making her mark.

Doing her thing.

The same white house sat atop the grassy hill.

Same handsome husband, carrying my glasses for me.

Same two troublemakers sisters, still the best of friends.

But this time, Miss Vivienne rounded out our crew.

Vivi… and this tiny wooden gopher that I spied.

Doesn’t it look just like a gopher? Or have I completely lost my mind?

Same, albeit older looking, big brother… leading the pack.

Same smallest brother, finding a treasure on the forest floor.

What? End of the trail already?

My feet were already pounding.

I, although I didn’t tell anyone, was very happy to see this sign.

Same goofy dog, a hair closer to manageable this time.

Same resting spot.

Same precious smile. How I love this smile.

Same boys.

Being boys.

Husband, now with a heart a few sizes bigger to accommodate the ridiculous love he has for his newest daughter.

Same Jude… doing his own thing.

making his mama smile.

I guess, as much as things stay the same, they change.

I find security in the things that are constant: love, family, relationships. It’s where my roots are.

But change brings with it such joy, often intertwined with sorrow: new life, time passing, growing older.

It is what makes life worth living.

Comments

  1. A journey in more ways than one.

    It's funny how a simple walk on a trail can remind you of your Father's love for you, a father's love for his kids, your love for each other…. Your love for the passing of time..even though, sometimes, it makes you a little sad.

    Sweet pictures, Stefanie!

    Reply

  4. I absolutely love this post!!! Your family is so beautiful and the love that you have for them shines through your post : ) I can always count on your post to lift my spirits. : )

    Reply

  6. Makes me fall in love with my family all over again…just reading it. My days have been full of reasons to stop, slow down..not expect too much, too soon. To remember to live and love in the moment because they are gone to fast.

    You are so so right. Makes life worth living.

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  7. I LOVE this post and am so grateful you brought your camera so we could walk along with you.
    A hike in the woods w/ your family is about as good as it gets!
    Love & Blessings from Hong Kong,
    Kim

    Reply

  9. This kind of day ~ at least I'm convinced of it ~ is what childhood memories are made of. Nothing beats time spent outdoors with family!

    Reply

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