I decided to take my parents to Saint Augustine over New Year's. I love the history and charm, and I thought they would really enjoy it too. I did not realize that the rest of the country loves to visit Saint Augustine that same weekend. It was CROWDED!! Luckily, many activities are completely outdoors and have lots of space for so many visitors. The activities we chose (the lighthouse and the Fountain of Youth) were perfect for our littles and for the rest of us, with lots of space to run around and play while also learning about the oldest city in America.
The trip was wonderful. I was blessed to have enough energy to enjoy the trip, and since we had to plan in some rest times for the kids, it was easy for me to make sure I got in some rest time as well.
While the rest of the trip was sweet and enjoyable, the real magic happened on New Year's Day. My mom wanted to sneak in one more quick walk on the beach before leaving, so I snuck out the door with her around 7:30am, hoping for a few quiet moments to enjoy the rest of the sunrise.
I was expecting the beach to be pretty empty. Since everyone stays up late on New Year's Eve, it seemed unlikely they would be jumping out of bed in the morning. The scene that greeted me as we stepped over the dunes was surprising. The orange sun was still climbing and partially covered with clouds. Mist created an ethereal feeling all around. People were standing and sitting along the ocean's edge-two or three together-as far as the eye could see, all facing the sun and looking out as if the crest of each wave was carrying their dreams of the new year into shore. Seeing the figures cloaked in mist along the shore deepened the feeling of anticipation, and the word that came to mind was hope. As we all gathered along the shore, we were connected by a hope for the days ahead, and a belief in the good that is coming.
I was feeling guilty for leaving the boys behind so we started back to the condo, and as we got closer I suddenly heard "MOMMY!!!", and saw Brad standing at the shoreline and my two beautiful little boys running toward me. I was grateful for the few quiet moments of contemplation, and then overcome with gratitude for these three souls that are sharing this journey with me. There has been good, hard, scary, heartbreaking, joyful, and everything in between this year, and we have weathered them all together. I felt such joy for the opportunity to share this life with them, and for the hope I have in them, and our path together this coming year.
I love the experience of each new year. I can't say I'm amazing at resolutions. But I love creating goals, hopes, and a new focus for the new year. This year I've decided my word is Healing. Here is to healing our hearts, our bodies, and our spirits in 2021.
