A Conglomerate of Days

As usual, there is no usual in my life. The days are packed, and when I look back on the past two weeks, I do know where the time goes and, as they say, it's all good. There's time with family, time for choir and hiking, time to volunteer for good causes, and time to visit with friends. There's even time for doctors' appointments, and I'm happy to report health issues are minimal. Here is a snapshot of recent days.

Gretchen came to Portland to celebrate Jude's eleventh birthday two weeks ago. Below are some shots to stop the clock for this present moment. Note the cherry blossoms in the background...very early this year!

Birthday Boy Jude, Hope, Peter, Gretchen, and Auggie

Granny and Auggie enjoy The Book With No Pictures

On March 10th I had my first experience in Traffic Court in Salem. When I called the clerk to find out what to expect, a voice replied, "Do you happen to be the same Ruth Lizotte that taught at Central Howell School thirty years ago?" I had to laugh when she told me she still remembers how to card, spin and weave wool! Not many kids remember learning that in fourth grade!

Not very fancy, but powerful! "Not Guilty!" I stated,
and the hearing will be rescheduled. Stay tuned to see what happens
to my $945. charge for going 15 mph over the speed limit.

On Wednesdays I hike with Portland Parks and Rec. Last week we hiked Horse Tail Falls Trail. It was steep, but the views of the Columbia River were amazing. Horse Tail was pretty impressive too!

Columbia River Gorge

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Trillium and Shamrocks
Perfect for St. Patrick's Day!

On March 16th and 17th I worked with two teacher friends at Catlin Gabel School. It is "Experiential Learning Week" there, and I was invited to teach their group of students how to make paste paper and hardback books.

Finished Products

Along with the book making, there were walks in the woods, quiet writing times, and all sorts of explorations in and around the campus...probably one of the most impressive campuses I've ever seen!

And as we explored the woods, I was fortunate to see the middle schoolers on a ropes course. Here are two girls high in the trees learning to trust each other and the ropes. Amazing!

Lean In! Trust Each Other!

Slowly! Feel Her Weight!

Oh No!

Falling...Caught With Harness

And With Classmates Cheering, They Descend Slowly

Meanwhile

Katie teaches her group about plants in the area
and what they might want to put in their beautiful books.

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This is a picture I didn't know I took.
I'll call it "Ruth on the Run!"

Today's beach hike was just what I needed to slow down. walk mindfully, and take time 

for gratitude. 

Carpe Diem