I'm still in shock over the results of the election yesterday, but I can talk about that later. For now, I'd like to share the wonderful week I just spent with my family and try to focus on how lucky I am to have so many positive things in my life.
Andy and I started the week still in California visiting family. On Monday, I tagged along with my sister-in-law and niece for a visit to a nearby Ranch owned by a friend. Watching the joy of my niece as she explored the ranch was contagious. That evening, Halloween, we joined my sister-in-law and her family for a Halloween party and some trick-or-treating. Far too soon, it was time to head home, but thankfully it was a short work week. Saturday morning, we were up early for some cold, wet yard work at Andy's family property on Vashon Island, where we go to make apple cider every fall. Since I missed attending the cider gathering this fall, I'm glad I had this chance to spend a morning at the property, but I certainly would've appreciated nicer weather!
On Sunday morning, Andy and I headed east for our first visit to the new cabin my parents recently purchased near Snoqualmie Pass. We only had time to spend the day on this trip, but we got to spend plenty of time out exploring the trails near the cabin, enjoying the beautiful views and fall foliage. I'm really looking forward to longer weekends spent with my family at this wonderful mountain retreat, especially now that my niece has started walking and enjoying exploring the outdoors. Even as I struggle to come to terms with the results of the election, I'll have thoughts of this week to get me through the shock.