El Nino's Big Adventure

My friend, E, and I took a short trip to visit a megalith park on the eastern edge of Pennsylvania called Columcille. We arrived in the a.m. and began our communion with nature by sitting on a large stone to meditate. However, gnats abounded and my pregnant self was too tempting to ignore. So I put up my hood, covered my mouth and nose with one hand, and lowered my head in an effort to dissuade the eager bugs. I managed to meditate for perhaps 5 minutes this way. Ah well. Let's take a walk in the woods instead.

Every time I find myself meandering through a forest, I remember how much I enjoy being among the trees. The first home that I lived in as a child was within walking distance of a forest that has, sadly, been de-forested over the years. And my parents' property contained a hickory grove. I've always loved the peace and beauty of the woods. My friend, E, is a self-declared rock hugger. I didn't realize people enjoyed rocks as much as I enjoy trees. My morning at Columcille showed me the beauty of these large beautiful boulders. While I still consider myself a tree hugger, I can appreciate my rock-hugging friends' preference.

I am moving into the final weeks of my pregnancy. This is the last week of my 7th month. And I am attempting to slow down, rest, and enjoy this wondrous time of life. My walk in the woods was a lovely way to transition into this quiet and contemplative phase as my husband and I eagerly await the arrival of our son.