I drink in the beauty-the coastline and the critters that live in the intertidal zone are breathtaking and exhilarating!
And the serenity-the gentle ebb and flow of the water in a protected cove and the rhythm of watching the breaking waves on the offshore rock piles is so hypnotic and soothing.
And the contentment-surrounded by my friends and family, my “abalone family”, a blending of the people that mean the most to both my husband and I, doing an activity we love, equals soul deep contentment.
And the wonder and awe of the world-recognizing all the moments experienced during the trip for how unique and special they are reminds me how wonderful and awesome life is!
We encourage people to visualize a happy place during challenging times. So I say this, collect memories of happy places and moments as you go, use them for those challenging times, but also look for those moments during the challenging times.
Labor is often full of surreal moments, hysterically funny sleep deprived moments, moments where you feel more loved, cared for and supported then you ever have before. Embrace them, cherish them and use them to get through that next contraction. And the next contraction. Until that awesome, wonderful moment you push your baby into the world and into your arms. Savor the journey!