Welcome 2024
New Year’s Day 2024
The wide expanse of the sea always takes my breath away with its monumental coastline and deep blue waters.
The ocean is a constant in my life. Born near it and always seeking it. To sit beside it. To play in it. To be restored by it. The waves and the wind leave me clearheaded. Quiet. Steady. It’s no surprise that I often return to the shore when I’m confused or when I’m struggling. I’ll get in my car and drive just to catch a glimpse at the ocean even if I don’t make it down to the beach to walk along her shores. Sometimes just to gaze upon her brilliance is all that is needed to bring me back to equanimity.
Staring at it all on New Year’s Day, a word kept repeating in my head. Then it hit me. That’s it. That’s my word for 2024.
E x p a n d i n g.
My friends and I were headed out on New Year’s Day to travel a new trail. One I had not yet explored and we were richly rewarded with West Marin’s glorious beauty. Tule elk were grazing on the hills above us. Raptors sat in the pine trees as we hiked below them. We crossed a wooden bridge and trudged on towards our destination – Drake’s Bay and the Pacific out beyond. The views were amazing.
By the time we finally reached the bay, we were all hungry for a picnic. We feasted on cheese and chocolate and the freshest homemade sourdough bread. As we headed back we quickly realized that if we didn’t hustle we might be walking in the dark. As we walked, our conversation turned to the New Year and new plans. Sharing hopes and dreams about what we’d like to add to our lives in 2024 – expanding our love, friendships, and experiences.
E x p a n d i n g.
Looking out before me at the new year I wonder what my higher power has in store for me. I hope it’s more side-aching-giggling-until-we-can’t-speak laughter with my son. More cookies to be baked and decorated with my daughter. More walks and hikes and bikes and explorations with my dear dear friends and family. Sunday dinners with the girls. Babies and cousins and nieces and nephews. More self-discovery, spiritual awakening, and service to others. Most of all more love.
E x p a n d i n g.
I wish you all the best for 2024.
xoxo
Jenny
Drakes Bay along the Estero Trail
