Becoming a Rancher

No, we have not taken up cattle branding and roping as new hobbies. This is an entirely different kind of ranching my friends.

Let me explain.

These are Nate’s sweet parents.

Thanks to them we had an incredible week at Sea Ranch (which, if you've never heard of it, isn't a ranch at all) with all of the family together. We were just missing that hardworking Elder Boyce.
There was plenty of time for playing, relaxing, reading, taking long walks and hitting the beach. Oh, and the most beautiful morning runs EVER. Coming back to the gym on Monday was such a let down!

Being all together doesn't happen very often.

Each time though it reminds us how blessed we are to be a part of something so wonderful. There's no one we'd rather laugh or be silly with!

We especially tried to soak in as much time as we could with these cuties:

So lucky to have such darling nieces...
even when they're having their meltdowns!

I loved exploring the tide pools, even though I fell both times we went. I guess the seaweed was a little more slippery than I thought. I'm sure it had nothing to do with my own clumsiness.

No big deal. A few scrapes and Nate helping me out of this terribly awkward position was totally worth it!

This trip was a true vacation – in every way.

For seven days there was little concern about a clean house, yard work, errands to run, medical appointments, or other stresses that seem to crowd themselves into every day life.

I never really understood how incredible this place is until I experienced it for myself. A lot of friends (especially you Everetts!) have spent time at Sea Ranch. They said great things, but I had no idea.

What I know now is that there’s a certain magic to Sea Ranch where everything slows down and life becomes much more simple. I'm ready to go back -- permanently.