David and my sister have tried convincing me to start a blog for years, and now that I’ve built up the courage to get one, all I can think of posting is “here is a list of things I did recently.” I’m hesitant to share what I’m thinking, things I’m struggling with, ideas I’m mulling over, or things I’m moved and inspired by. All that requires giving something of myself, and that’s a very vulnerable position to willingly put myself in. I guess it all comes with time, and I should give myself grace. I’m not sure what my vision is for this blog, but I’m still very interested in documenting my life for the sake of reflection, understanding, and appreciation. Sometimes it takes a second look to realize what you’ve got is worthwhile.

We spent very little time at home this past weekend and I loved every minute of it. On Friday I had drinks at a favorite local restaurant with my friend Stephanie. It’s unfortunate how little I get to see her so I was thankful for the opportunity to catch up. Saturday David and I spent our day with the most generous and kind friends, enjoying the boat races on the beautiful Savannah River. I feel so blessed to know them. I always leave their parties happy and feeling like part of the family. Sunday we had coffee together before church, and afterwards picked some figs from a tree nearby (I see plenty of fig and goat cheese salad in our future) and took a trip to the antique store. We cleaned the house, I went for a run and baked our favorite cake (I omit the stevia and use maple syrup instead), and in the evening our friend came over to watch Spirited Away, which we haven’t seen in far too long. Side note: Hopefully in a few weeks I’ll be able to audit his Philosophy of Religion class at the local university and I couldn’t be more excited. I desperately miss that kind of learning environment.

I’m very glad David and I have been socializing more, getting out of our isolated bubble, but it does have a tendency to leave me feeling drained if I’m not careful. I enjoy being social very much–need it, even–but as an introvert I require so much time to recharge. I’m looking forward to the quiet week ahead.

Here are a few photos from the weekend. One day I’ll use my real cameras, I swear. It’s hard to resist the convenience of the iPhone.