Easter Eggs?

Though it may look like Easter arrived early, these are really the 111 golf balls pulled from the snorkeler's cove (also pictured) during my snorkeling expeditions. This does not include the 30+ that Nini found nor the near 40 that my 12-year-old friend Matthew and I found together during his week-long visit here. Not a bad haul, if I do say so myself, and we still get to have Easter eggs in a few more weeks! We'll have to try for a new record next year. Meanwhile, the unique blues and greens in the water continue to soothe the soul and calm the mind. This is my favorite view of all times, and it's why I keep coming back to the Bahamas!

A glimpse of Paradise...

This is the view each morning outside of our little piece of Paradise: the soothing colors of the sea, the sound of waves lapping at the beach, white beaches with sand so fine it's a delight to walk upon, a hammock luring you into a morning of reading, and the sight of the tip of the cove where snorkeling brings you nose to nose with the underwater world. No clocks, no schedule, no worries -- just rest, relaxation, friends, laughter, and rejuvenation. God has truly given us Paradise and we are thankful for it.

Don't worry; be happy!

Disguised as two Bahama Mamas, Nini and I made the most of her 8-day visit by packing in as much as we could while still resting, relaxing, and reading. Junkanoo, a conch salad-making demo, swimming and birthday celebration with Betty and the kids, a *#@&!+!% jigsaw puzzle from --ll, and a visit to The Dig at Atlantis were among the many activities that occupied our time. When we weren't doing that, we were shopping on Bay Street, snorkeling in the cove, soaking in a little sun, or looking at impressive yachts in the marina. Nini found a Queen Conch that easily wins as the best find ever in our little cove! Thanks, Nini, for the fun-filled week. So glad you made it and hope we'll get to do it again!

Just over 9...

What a day! Six feisty ladies took to the Powerline and Sutherland Trails and soaked in the beauty of the desert, listened to the rush of the snow runoff stream through the canyon, and dodged the rocks along the way as they clicked off 9+ miles of climbs and (a few) descents in perfect weather. Our three canine companions (Tucker, Gus, and Kiernan) scouted ahead, chasing each other to see if pups or oldtimers would be king of the desert today, and then they rounded us up to be sure all made it up and back without losing touch with the group. If you've never challenged yourself to take on life and what it has to offer, it's about time you did! You don't know if you don't try, and trust me, you won't regret it. These Thursday morning hikes are a real blessing. When I walk on my own, it is peaceful and fulfilling. When I walk with the Thursday hiking group, it is challenge and chatter and adventure and giggles and aches and a renewal of life. I hope it goes on forever!