Purgatory Chasm

A few days before our library closed in response to COVID-19, we checked out a book called "Quiet Places of Massachusetts". 

On a cold and sunny March morning, we explored "Purgatory Chasm" within an hour's drive of our home.

We packed a picnic lunch.

And used one of the Outdoor scavenger hunts that had been posted online.

I did add "something beautiful" to the list, because I was curious what they would choose. If you are curious as well, Jason instantly decided on some moss:

And Sophia determined it was a three way tie:

Other exciting discoveries were that some trees are skinny enough to shake:

And Icicles are nature's version of a popsicle:

I have been inspired by the enthusiasm and resilience of our 6 and 4 year olds.

And buoyed by the porch drops and care packages sent by family and friends for when we are not in the woods.

It is also sustaining to live with two 11 month olds who are entirely oblivious to current events and endlessly fascinated by their own toes.

Dennisport

Sometimes the best vacations are the closest to home and the shortest in length.

When we left the country for our Honeymoon and got badly sunburned in a place where a main attraction is swimming in hot springs, it ended up not being our favorite trip.

But this recent one...an hour away...for two nights...with four children...was one of our best.

The kids loved the hot tub at the house we were renting and playing in the falling snow, but we spent most of our time at the Cape Cod Children's Museum. 

I loved the opportunity to both watch their creativity and to create with them.

We ended our trip with dinner at Jason's, a thrill for a little boy who is just beginning to recognize his name in writing.

The outings were a lot of fun, but Jason seemed to enjoy trying on other people's pants just as much.

And if you ask Sophia, her favorite part of the vacation was when we made "towel dresses" after playing in the hot tub.

Nada

This Christmas I had the opportunity to introduce our infant twins to Nada.

I first met her as a fifteen year old intern at the social service agency where she was the secretary.

I was sheltered yet certain that I wanted to be a social worker.

Her life has been the hardest I have known, and yet she is the one who continues to love the fiercest.

She calls my babies, her babies, my Mom, "Mom", and me "MyLiz". 

After she prays for you, you are convinced of God's goodness and less concerned about outcomes.

She has taught me to love when wounds are still fresh. 

My babies/her babies have inherited one of the best cheerleaders.

And I am so thankful that we are hers.