Cabin Life

Each summer, we are blessed with the ability to separate from our day to day and the 100 degree Texas heat to enjoy two full weeks in the majestic Colorado mountains. My grandparents built a humble cabin over 40 years ago, improved over time by aunts, uncles and cousins, that has become a treasured possession for anyone in our family. It is not glamorous but oh is it glorious. It reminds me of the legacy we are capable of creating for generations to come with whatever level of resource we are given. My grandparents were hard working parents of six children, living through the depression as a simple brick layer and devoted housewife and yet they have left what I consider to be one of the gifts I am most thankful for: mountain memories that span the generations and provide a respite for whoever enter its door.

Each year after we say goodbye to the most life-giving two weeks of our year hands down, I ask myself the same question on our drive back to Texas: How can I add more of our rhythms at the cabin into our life rhythms at home?

Don’t get me wrong, I am not referring to the limited running water or needing to hand wash every single dish. The dirt and grime under each little nail can be a bit shocking. But, what really makes the cabin so magical is not simply the geographical location or the fact that we aren’t in our regular daily routines, which I know play a part. As I look more closely and reflect, a few things stand out to me.

• We disconnect from technology.

• We focus on face time with each other.

• We read. A lot.

• We try one new thing each summer.

• We do things simply because it brings joy.

• We build campfires and stare into the mesmerizing flames.

• We enjoy treats without guilt.

• We realize our days aren’t about productivity but savoring.

• We allow our hands and our feet to get dirty.

• We explore.

• We are present.

• We play games and games and more games.

• We cook simple and belly-comforting meals.

• We look for wildlife.

• We stand in awe of creation.

• We are inspired to be outside more than inside.

• We delight in nature and photography.

• We adventure together.

• We take naps.

• We sit and reflect while the stillness envelopes us.

• We embrace the quiet.

• We are reminded how small we are and how big God is and in comparison to the magnificent mountains.

I think I can find a few of these to implement more regularly into our daily living.

What do you take away from your respite of summer and desire to integrate more into the other seasons?

Platte River