I had allowed myself to become quite burnt out by June (well, February really, but I pushed through until June). I had commented to someone a while back that we really are capable of far too much all on our own. I proved myself right. When I should have been taking more time to rest and take care of myself, I was doing all that I could to stay afloat. This summer has really been a time of resting, relaxing, enjoying a (somewhat) slower pace, and taking a break from the (crazy) routine and schedule that dictates my life the rest of the year.
I went on my first real vacation! What a wonderful two weeks those were. And although there were things I would do differently (less days of driving 9+ hours a day, more beach...) I loved nearly every minute of it. And now I keep thinking back to those 2 weeks. Because even though our programs and other activities haven't really started yet, life is getting crazy. My jaw is almost constantly tense, and I can't do anything to relax it. (It's driving me crazy. Seriously.) It turns into really tight neck and shoulders, and I'm pretty sure the whole situation is just perpetuated.
The things my mind keeps returning to from my vacation are:
Trinity Center, CA (on Trinity Lake, in Trinity County, fed by Trinity River. Do you sense a theme here?) This tiny little town of 200 people stole my heart with it's sad, painful history, but bright, optimistic attitude.
It was there that I heard and met Aimee Nolte, a brilliant Jazz musician who grew up in neighbouring Weaverville. She could have been Norah Jones, if I didn't know better. Amazing voice. (And now we're friends on facebook!) I bought one of her CD's, and her voice draws me back to the lake shore where she performed.
Mostly, I think I keep remembering the restful and relaxing pace (when I wasn't driving 9+ hours a day). I had 4 beautiful days in one spot in California. It was so good to just sit and be. The weather was stunning (35 degrees, which is pretty much perfect in my books).
In 2 months this summer, I put 10,000 km on my car! I went to the camp where I'm on the board of directors 3 times, I drove to northern Saskatchewan to visit an old friend from Camp Chestermere (this trip is an annual tradition, and this was the fifth year running). I don't know where else I all went, but I had a lot of fun and still managed to get some work done.
I read a couple of books. A couple is a couple less than I'd hoped, but it's better than nothing. I went to 2 rodeos (Calgary and Strathmore), both of which were great fun.
I'm getting to the point where I'm excited about some things about fall (just not fall itself, or the weather.) I'm looking forward to seeing my students consistently again. I MISS THEM! I'm looking forward to sharing some of the things God's been teaching me, and putting on my heart. I'm looking forward to some opportunities to connect with some pastor friends; they're people who care for me and challenge me in ways no one else can. They are gifts from God to me.
And today I booked tickets to go to Ontario for Christmas. I am so excited to spend Christmas with these cuties:
My niece Natalie and my nephew Gavin. I can't wait to give them hugs, kisses, and all sorts of presents! (It's my job as Auntie. I couldn't possibly let them down.)
And I might be looking forward to seeing these fine folks as well:
So I guess fall maybe isn't that bad. It brings us Christmas. And in my case family.
Okay, I guess I'll be alright.
