The Checklist I Didn't Know I Had

This May, at month's end,

marks two years I've been out west.

 And you really wouldn't believe all the adventures I've had.

All the things that I've seen, and all the things that I've done,

that I know may seem just plain old ordinary to most people,

but you see,

to me- they've been extraordinary.

I buckled my feet into skis,

and I ran my first race.

I shucked oysters, pulled fresh from the bay.

I filled weekends hiking longer and farther then my legs knew they could climb.

I was accepted as a member to a board which supports an incredible cause.

I sniffed and I swirled and I tasted wine fit for a king.

I have stopped and seen seals bobbing up and down in the bay.

image is my own

 I witnessed whales gliding majestically through the pacific.

I've met interesting people and devoted friends. 

I allowed my heart to guide the way, 

and, er, in one instance, my head may have been too far in the clouds.

I have felt scared, and anxious and sometimes lonely. 

But... Ive also experienced joy, and pride 

and the overwhelming sensation of pure satisfaction,

for a job well done

for a fear conquered

for turning disbelief into reality

for challenging my mind and pushing my body

for making the smallest 

and simplest pleasures 

special. 

xo