I sat down to write this post and immediately thought of 4 or 5 ways to start it — none of which weave together very well, and all of which are an accurate reflection of things rumbling around in my head over the past few weeks. The world has gotten a little loud lately. I’m guessing you might be able to relate? So often when this happens, my reaction is to get loud and busy and chaotic, right alongside the world around me. However this response is rarely (if ever) productive. Learning (always the hard way) that the opposite is needed. To get quiet, be present, and lean into my people. So that’s exactly what we did a couple weeks ago with a trip to Discovery Park. In all my years of living in the PNW, I have never been and couldn’t get over how fun the walk down to the beach was. Of course the beach was pretty great too!
Anyways, between Johan’s School Board campaign kicking off, medical mandates for Firefighters in our state, getting kids geared up for school, trying to work and meet deadlines, and life in general, we honestly didn’t feel like we had the time to do anything but chip away at our todo list, but we hopped in the car anyway and I’m so thankful that we did. Things have a funny way of falling into place and into the proper perspective when we simply take care of the most important things first. Our faith, our people, our health.
Here’s a few (ok, a lot) of pics from our visit and 100 reasons why you should add it to your family outing list, if you’re in the area!
You know you’re the baby of the family when you’re 7 and still get carried. In our defense, Poppy did fall asleep in the car and is a total bear to wake up. She needs at least 30 minutes and a snack to start acting like a human and we’re shameless enablers.
Can you even call it a family walk or hike if someone doesn’t run ahead to hide and then jump out at the crew when they walk by?
This little black dress is so gauzy and comfy and perfect for summer to fall outfits (love this option too). Plus it spins! Haven’t washed it yet, but reviews say air drying is a must or it shrinks up. Will link all outfit details at the bottom of this post for those that are interested ;).
Not sure what’s happening here, but leave it to my very practical kid to show up with layers. We needed them for this outing… warm on the trail and cold at the beach!
Collecting flowers and foliage as we go!
There are few things more nerve-racking than hanging with kids that have sticks, lol. Rocks being the other nerve-racker. Worth it for the entertainment factor though!
Gah! This guy! He’s not perfect but he has a heart of gold and is currently leading the way through a very tricky time for Firefighters as they get organized and team up with Healthcare Workers, and Teachers who are advocating for medical freedom. Whether someone has chosen to get the vaccine or not should be a personal decision – not a one size fits all mandate. So many questions for those that believe otherwise or simply ignore natural immunity, but also very open to the conversation so feel free to chat in the comments… just try to avoid the buzzwords if you could in case censorship starts progressing past social media!
A few thoughts:
How can something be good if it goes against faith, wisdom, and personal accountability? If it ignores autonomy and other options? If it requires coercion, fear mongering, and billions of dollars in advertising? If it leads to censorship, division, and the inability to questions any of the data or science which by definition, is scientific? If it requires blind trust to government, politicians, and big Pharma – all of which have a laundry list of criminal charges and corruption? And what about the adverse reactions and risks?
I also understand why people would get it, too! We all have different experiences with vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and the healthcare system. We all have different health concerns and points of view and I would never impose, discriminate, or shame anyone who feels differently than I feel. Half of the people we know, love, and adore, have gotten it so I get it. I’m not living in a bubble nor would I allow it to effect any meaningful relationship. Evil likes division and chaos. Jesus does not. And the opposite of love is not hate, but fear. It’s fear that has a tendency to drive us and just like my dad used to tell me, “you will never make a good decision when you’re drunk” I believe the same to be true about fear (unless of course you’re are in a “fight or flight” situation). Living in fear will rarely lead you to good decisions.
We won’t be making decisions out of fear and we won’t abandon our convictions for convenience or comfort. Our behavior will reflect our beliefs as much and as often as possible.
Mkay, end rant!
Oh, look! Sticks and rocks! My fave! Ha!
Was extra thankful for my fanny-pack in the wind!
The nicest lady saw us playing on the beach and offered to take a pic. They all came out blurry but the ocean is in focus. Maybe a little symbolic? Either way, I’m grateful for the fuzzy pics.
My girls! Looking like twins in this pic!
Feeling like I spilled enough beans today, so will save the rest for another post… Lucky you ;)
Thanks for being here and letting me share.
xoxo, Rae
OUTFIT DETAILS:
- Rae – dress, shoes (40% off), belt bag
- Tilly – zip up sweatshirt, sneakers
- Poppy – shorts, cardigan (literally the cutest and comes in a few colors)
- Johan – pants, hoodie
So much goodness in this post! The pics, the location, your words, the feels, the fun, love all of it :)
oh, yo! Jeg elsker deg
Your outlook on the shot is refreshing! Thank you for supporting freedom of choice. So much seems like common sense, but it isn’t so common right now. Adorable family. I am glad that you were able to enjoy some time with them. :)
Thank you Jodie! xo
Very proud of you and your husband for standing up for what you believe in. Praying for both of you and for your whole family. I love that your husband is not only trying to stand up (and team up with others) against mandates they don’t agree with – many just follow suit to not go against the grain. And I also LOVE that he is running for school board! A Christian radio show I listen to says if you are unhappy with many of the things happening in our world these days start locally and run for school board. If I lived in your area he would definitely have my vote! Way to teach your children to be warriors for Christ and to stand up for themselves and what they believe in by leading by example. The family outing looks amazing and I always enjoy your family pics. Thank you for continuing to share your family with us.
Poppy is 7!!!!? I’ve been reading your blog a loooong time! my wardrobe (& road trip memories) thank you.
Also- How is it I have watched your kids grow along side mine but you never age?
Thank you for sharing so beautifully. I admire your courage to speak up with love and boldness. Keep going. You are an inspiration ❤️
Fully agree with your view on things. Up here in Canada, they are mandating a lot of things too, and there is just division and coercion. I basically stressed through the last 2 weeks of my summer vacation. The hate is real. I am trying to stay positive despite what is happening, but I really feel sad for our children’s generation.