Six Things Sunday

I couldn’t muster the energy to post a Five Things Friday two days ago. I needed to mourn… but I realized that writing also helps me remember the small things that I’m thankful for. I know most people say it gets easier, but I think it gets harder because initially you’re in shock… then it starts to sink in. Evenings are the most difficult, those quiet and contemplative hours when you’re not as occupied with the daily buzz of life.

But through my deep sadness over the much-too-soon passing of our chicken, Gisele, I try to be optimistic because I really do believe that this short life we all live should be celebrated. I’m thankful for the two fun and wonderful years I had with Gisele, and for everything she has taught me.

I can say, without a doubt, that having the rare and awesome opportunity to raise her (and her sisters) has changed my life profoundly. And realizing that is the Number One thing that made my week.

Here are five more things that made my week last week (actually last weekend, on our drive through the Arizona desert… more on that soon!).

All of these pictures were taken by the real photographer in the family, my husband and my rock, Will Taylor.

1. Road trip.

2. Gettin’ my kicks.

3. Abandoned bus. Middle of nowhere. Tempted to bring it home.

4. Wildflowers galore in summertime, thanks to 22 straight days of monsoon rains.

5. My own little paradise. Or not so little. Beaver Falls in Havasupai… I’m still stunned we were the only people there that afternoon.