Natural Bridge State Park

We discovered this beautiful treasure of a place during our first year of marriage when we needed a getaway before one of Jonathan's surgeries. It spoke to my Tennessee heart right away with it's steep ridges and tree-laden, hollowed out places. We so enjoyed our time there and I was excited to return  for camping last week with Jonathan's family. Although we were only able to stay overnight, it was worth it. 

Being silly with leaves.

And of course Sadie came!

By far, my favorite part of the trip was when we took Jonathan's dad the 'big kids' hiking up to see the Natural Bridge. Thanks to my dad, I've spent many an hour exploring places just like this back in Tennessee. I feel so at home among thick, shady canopies and wandering Mountain Laurels. My heart will always be able to find healing and comfort in the mountain wilds. 

Jonathan's favorite part of the hike was Devil's Gulch, a (very) steep fissure in the mountains that would thrill any adventurers' soul. Crooked staircases, wrinkled leaves underfoot and the cool shade of ancient trees standing over it all in watchful silence. I love feeling small in these places.

And then it was back to the camp with a flower in hand for Momma Tina and the hunger that comes from exhausting yourself through intense exploration.

In summary, we spent the chilled night talking, child-wrangling, laughing and movie-quoting around the fire. I ate pork-chops without utensils. I got sticky-s'more fingers. I got to hear Jonathan's grandmother say that, after over 50 years of marriage, she loves and respects her husband more now than she ever did. I blinked, wide-eyed, at pinpoint stars and caught the inviting scent of fallen leaves on the breeze. And then, when we retired for the night, I fell all over again in love with my husband lying quiet beside me while the crickets lullaby-ed us both to sleep.

You have me, mountains, heart and soul. 

We Love Dogs, Especially Ours

Before we bought Sadie, I did a lot of research. Even though I had wanted a Great Dane for a very long time, I wanted to make sure this breed was a good fit for us and our lifestyle.  

I found that people had a lot to say about Danes:

>>They said they're gentle, lazy and sweet.

>>They said they're big. Not a large breed, a giant breed. 

>>They said they'll make you laugh with all their goofy antics

>>They said don't get one if you don't want a dog that wants to be with you all.the.time.

And you know what?

It's all true. 
We sure love this bundle of extra-long legs and craziness. 

Thanks for being the best dog ever, Miss Sadie Pants. I don't know what we'd do without you!