New Year, New Adventures

We've just returned from a backpacking trip to Shi Shi Beach in Olympic National Park with my nephews where we came upon a very young sea otter pup. It seemed a fitting way to bring in the new year. Most otter pups don't survive their first winter, much less their first year. Face-to-face with the constant struggle to survive we were reminded of how well off we are - friends, family, all of the basic necessities, and a few luxuries as well. Hope for 2011 filled the air. Setbacks would occur. Triumphs would be lost in the bustle of modern life. But poignant reminders of who we are, what we value, and why we surround ourselves with people like you will be ever-present..if only we take the time to look.

Best wishes to you and yours this New Year. May it be filled with hope, joy, and magical moments of unanticipated wonder.

Sea Otter pup at Shi Shi Beach crying for mom.