11/03/2024: Pine, CO Day 3

It’s always the last day when I feel properly settled into the nature escape. I seem to want to bargain with myself, wishing for just one more day to savor before returning to our day to day lives. But I know that extra day would leave me wishing endlessly for one more after that too. 

At least we’ve got some things to look forward to coming up, and we get to see our family. I miss everyone, and I was sad to miss my grandpa’s birthday this year. Sometimes the reality of the distance between us gets to me, when I remember that I’m not just a short drive away like I used to be. But at the same time I’m glad to be where I am and that all my time at home is more precious since it’s more rare now. 

Either way, this is the time of year where this quality time means the most to us, when the holidays come around. There’s always good food and great people to share laughs and love with, and it reminds us of those who are gone that made it all so memorable. Last night we made Caleb’s grandma’s potato soup, and to this day we still have to hold up our first spoonfuls and say “To Grammy” before we eat our first bite. She was the glue that brought everything and everyone together this time of year on Caleb’s side, and I’m so glad I got to know and love her too, and most importantly keep her memory alive in the kitchen. 

I also strive to do this on my side of the family. My mom has always been my teacher, and any time I’m able to make something that wows her I feel accomplished. Her legacy must be protected and remembered too, because there isn’t a better cook that I know of in my family. It’s amazing how something as simple as a warm meal and a family gathering can feed the soul. It’s something that I always think about in the last couple months of the year. I can’t wait to get there and to hug everyone and to get some much needed quality time in.

As I enjoy the final hours of solitude this morning, I’ll savor the moments I have left, reminisce on the last couple of days, and I’ll take all of these thoughts and feelings with me when I go. I have some future goals on my mind for the coming year, and as this year comes to a close, I’ll eagerly finish up the things I’ve been working on and get ready to tackle those soon.

I know the time is going to fly; it always does. But I’ll do my best to take things slow and to cherish every moment.