“The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.” – Paulo Coehlo
I spent this past Valentine’s Day weekend up on Whidbey Island with my friend, Eric, my kids, and Cooper the dog. It’s taken me a while to figure out why repeatedly going back to this same place is so good for my soul – even on cold, cloudy weekends in winter.
It’s because it lights up the complete sensory experience.
Cooper the dog experiences everything through his mouth.
Nine-year-old Miss O runs barefoot through the sand singing and dancing.
Five-year-old Mr. D gets up close and touches everything.
My friend, Eric, handles everything with his sense of humor. That counts as a sense, right?
I visited this beach a few times before I had kids. It’s a lovely spot. But to come here with these young spirits changes the whole experience to a full immersion. Instead of just walking through and taking pictures of what I see, they remind me to embrace the experience with all my senses.
And to stay close to the people that make you feel alive.
(all photos are mine)
You can find me on Instagram @wynneleon and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynneleon/
I co-host a storytelling podcast featuring authors and artists with the amazing Vicki Atkinson. To tune in, search for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music or Pocketcasts (and subscribe) or click here. Or the YouTube channel features videos of our interviews. Please subscribe!
My other projects include work as a CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer), speaking about creativity and AI through the Chicago Writer’s Association, and my book about my journey to find what fueled my dad’s indelible spark and twinkle can be found on Amazon: Finding My Father’s Faith.
Surprised By Joy 