nature for the win



When I'm feeling down about the uncertainty of how long we will be here and missing my home, I have to fight the urge to curl up in bed and feel sorry for myself. I've learned it is better for me to put on my hiking boots and walk out the door than to give in to depression.  Being out in this insanely beautiful place kicks the blues right in the ass. I've been up here for almost 3 months and still am awestruck by the views, clean air, wildlife and flowers.  All of these photos are taken within walking distance of the condo which just blows my mind.  




























My hiking uniform.  Tshirt on sale now at Target for $5.  
Lightweight, perfect for summer or layering in Winter.
And of course these shorts.
















































































So really...how dare I complain about anything right?  What a baby I can be.  I have a roof over my head, plenty of food, a soft bed to sleep in and I'm surrounded in this glorious natural setting, I'm literally drowning in luxury.  I have no idea how long we will be here but I do have faith it'll all work out. Happy Monday my friends.  And THIS.  x



80 comments

  1. Except for "there's no place like home." Gorgeous photography and nice hiking outfit! I guess all you can do is live in the moment and share with us. :-)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Happy Monday Janet! How beautiful it is up there! Thanks for sharing all the nature photos and I'm glad to hear you are keeping up your exercise...that's partly why I workout so much to combat depression. (it runs on my mom's side of the family but so far I have managed to escape it) I do get "the blues" once in awhile about everything going on but I have to remind myself it won't last forever and many people have it so much worse!

    I wore my chambray shorts yesterday, at home though because it was pouring down here! The rain was such a godsend, and I don't have to water for a week! Your garden at home will be thriving. :)

    Linda
    xo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i have heard from friends all about the crazy rain you got. so awesome - glad you got it too! x

      Delete
    2. Was indeed awesome and caught me by surprise! We captured buckets and buckets of rainwater, plus also three outside trash cans full (like big, round garbage cans you buy at the hardware store). Only thing we've gotta be careful of now is mosquitoes because it's beastly humid and hot, like 80 degrees at 5am. Everything is so washed clean (including the cars), considering we're under restriction and can't hose off driveways or sidewalks, yet everything is so dusty from so much loose dirt in vacant lots, people's dying yards, roadsides where nothing green grows anymore It was so weird to smell rain on earth or pavement; love that smell. Been so long.

      Delete
  3. Love it all! But the cow. The cow is the best.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i know julie. they have gotten to know us and don't run away when we walk by now. :)

      Delete
  4. Oh Juanita, you're doing the right thing despite the homesickness. What a truly beautiful place it is. xxx

    ReplyDelete
  5. So gorgeous. Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Lovely story. And you, you're a beautiful lady in beautiful surrounding; so be happy ... or else !! xxx

    ReplyDelete
  7. Living in suburbia as I do, I have found myself longing for the beauty and peacefulness of the mountains lately, so I suppose we both need to remember to bloom where we are planted.

    ReplyDelete
  8. That's how I feel when I'm at my father's farm....so blessed to be surrounded by something so big and so beautiful. Sometimes I feel as small as a bug, I look up and there's lakes and animals and flowers all around....and there I am, right in the peaceful middle of it all. It puts things into perspective for me.

    You're a truly wonderful lady. ♥

    ReplyDelete
  9. Beautiful scenery Janet! God really is the best decorator :-)
    Not to be too cliché but you are blooming where you have been planted.
    Trust in God - He does all things well and for a purpose.

    Caroline

    ReplyDelete
  10. Would your Father-In-Law ever consider moving by you? I'm sure you've thought of this... so don't know why I'm mentioning it? :)

    xxxxx Jennifer

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. oh no, that is out of the question at the moment. wouldn't that be perfect though?! x

      Delete
  11. You have been given the gift of time - to write your book - or make a photographic journal - or take up drawing/painting - or do some creative writing. Now how cool is that?
    - Jan-Leanne

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. the time up here is pretty cool and yes i should do any one of those things. i do consider my blog to be a sort of journal though. x

      Delete
  12. Beautiful scenery. Thanks for sharing. I don't mean to be nosy, but what about your jobs - your's and your husband's? How are you managing to be away from them for so long. You certainly are wonderful doing what you're doing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i am on leave from my job and hope and pray my clients will come back to me when i return. Larry can work from anywhere as long as he has a good internet connection. x

      Delete
    2. Ahhh. So good that Larry can work from anywhere and you are able to be on leave. I have no doubt that your clients will come back to you when you return - how could they not? I'm sure they miss you and will be so happy to have you back.

      Delete
  13. Janet, Thank you for sharing these amazing photos! It's difficult being a caregiver. I understand the isolation, and feeling homesick, that you're experiencing. Just remember all things for a reason, and the situation is temporary. In this moment, you and Larry are being a blessing for FIL. In the meantime, we're all here for you! You're not alone!! Another thing to be grateful for, you are healthy and able to go for hikes to experience the beauty surrounding you. I'm so impressed by the simple decorating you've done in your small space, and your minimalist wardrobe. You continue to inspire that 'simple life'! Girl shake off that melancholy, and let's see some yoga poses with the gorgeous photo background you have! :) Sending peace and love your way! xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. P.S. I have no idea why there are links added to my message??? So please disregard them.

      Delete
    2. thank you dear mona. there is a season for everything. thank you for being here. x

      Delete
  14. What a nice bunch of photos! Thanks for sharing them. I can why your FIL wanted to live in such a gorgeous place.

    As for exercise, okay, I'll share something, too: I had a six-month period of diagnosed depression in my 40s and it's a long story of why, not to be shared here...just a lot of things that piled up when I was hormone-compromised as well; I'd also suffered some tremendous losses which were life-altering for me and it was a whole different direction I just couldn't find the tools for...so, I got some good talk therapy with a professional for a limited amount of time, but by far what helped pull me out of the depths was daily, vigorous exercise, specifically walking, miles and miles of walking, OUTDOORS, anywhere in sunshine and breeze whipping my face, in various locales (not a track, but just out in the regular world and neighborhoods), all my senses blazing awake and alive in the natural environment, which just seemed to push out the bad stuff and return me to 'balance.' (And I was a couch potato at the time, so it was a big leap.)

    Journaling also helped, and you're kinda doing that here with your blog, so that's good. Also, reading was really good for me, and you're doing that as well. I immersed myself in a book series, historical fiction in fact, so that I had one book after another as part of one long saga; would really take me away from my own head for a little while and was a great form of relaxation. Doing your yoga must also do a lot to focus your mind, take out the kinks; therapeutic massages are also beneficial (I couldn't afford the $50+ sessions, but I did it anyway and I never knew massage could be so incredibly liberating; I'd become a big knot of total tension). I'd take a short rest in the afternoon, too...just a tiny little nap after exercise, and it was healing/rejuvenating, stretching out, not necessarily sleeping.

    What I really admire in this going on with you too, Janet, is that you can find your attitude of gratitude and also see your environment each day with new eyes, appreciating that 'alpine' setting and finding new beauty. Clearly, you know this situation you find yourself in, with your FIL, is temporary, so kudos to you for finding your patience and taking advantage of what you've got there while you have it (essentially, a resort/vacation destination if not for your personal circumstances), making the most of it, doing your utmost to go with the flow...flow being a good concept. I am no psycol-expert but I've read a little about 'flow' and being immersed in the moment...and how being in that zone can bring a person real joy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. as always thank you vicki for your insights. it is a temp situation that we are in just some days feel like forever. thanks for being here and always giving a positive comment. x

      Delete
  15. Ah, can you swim in that amazing lake?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. technically you could but i wouldn't. people fish in it too. x

      Delete
  16. Your hikes sound wonderful. The right thing to do is most often not the easiest. Glad you are making the most of your time away. Home is going to feel so good!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you kathy. you are right...home is going to be so sweet. x

      Delete
  17. I enjoyed your pictures so very much, they look so cool and refreshing. I write this sitting here in my house with the A/C running and trying to keep the house cool. I live in Texas and it is hot, very hot. Plants and vegetation are struggling to stay alive. I would like to be outdoors but it is just too hot.
    I can understand that you long for your own house and things. I would have a hard time to be so isolated, it feels good for a while but I need people .
    To live in the moment is easier said than done.
    Namaste.
    Renate

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you renate. it is easier said than done on some days, others it seems so easy. one thing i'm not missing is the super hot weather. it's heaven up here weather-wise. x

      Delete
  18. Whenever I find the urge to wish I were some place else I remind myself with the quote

    "Wherever you are, be ALL there"

    It is hard though because of the uncertainty of it all and when there's no end in sight so I do feel for you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. such a great quote. thanks for sharing lilian. love you name btw. my new grandaughter shares it with you now. :)

      Delete
    2. And she'll probably end up being Lily or Lils...which I often get from friends and those close to me :)

      Delete
  19. Pretty pics. I am not a nature girl, so I would be stir crazy. Can you not go home for a week by yourself? Doesn't mean you are helping less or not supportive, but sometimes we have to recharge. I would die away from my little home. Just a thought. Glad you have such a great attitude. I could so learn from you. Thanks again for your blog. Lor

    PS: Is it close to baby time yet?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. going home isn't really an option but a great idea. yes, lor we have a new baby, lily. she is beautiful. x

      Delete
  20. I just returned from a beach vacation with my youngest son, his wife, 7 grandsons, spouses, little ones & girlfriend. It was my first vacation without my husband & I was blindsided by the feeling of loss again after 3 years. I walked & walked on the beach... praying & thinking. Being outdoors in nature, wherever it may be, always brings healing & thanksgiving for God's gifts.

    Beautiful pictures, beautiful attitude, beautiful you Janet. You have a great gift for balance in all things.....& a strong faith will always see you through any trial. That doesn't mean it will be easy, but you will survive it.

    Anita ~ the cabin on the creek

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. oh anita, i'm so sorry for your sadness. i imagine it does come in waves. thankfully nature is a great great healer. glad you got to spend time with your beautiful family. what a gift that must be to you. take care. x

      Delete
  21. Chambray shirts, cute shorts, a nice note book, a camera, coffee, wine, great people....sounds like a lovely time to me ; )
    xxoo seriously more xxoo Kelley ; )

    ReplyDelete
  22. your heart of gratitude is infectious. :)
    my nephews and niece live oh so very close to your present location.
    truly a gorgeous area ... most folks have NO idea the beauty in utah.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you sherry. how nice that they get to live in this beautiful place! x

      Delete
  23. Hi Janet, Wow, you're lucky to be able to spend so much time in that gorgeous place! I know you're taking care of your in-law, but you have nature walks for your reward. You can make a wall calendar with those beautiful photos. Thanks for sharing and caring. You have a way of making one appreciate what they have. xx

    ReplyDelete
  24. Bonjour Janet, Thank you for sharing these wonderfull photos. I read your blog for a long time and you became like a friend for me. I didn't send you messages in the past (because my English is so poor and bad ! - please, excuse me for that) but your last posts about your life far from your home really touched me. I like the way you live (simple and chic) enjoying simple life pleasures. I feel the same when I am in my garden at the countryside or hikking in the nature. And as you, I need that to feel good when life is not what we want. The beauty of nature, flowers, animals, stars and the wonderfull clouds (even grey ones) can really help us. I can understand what you feel at the moment.
    Your blog, your "journal" is wonderfull. Thank you so much to share with us your life, your expériences and your so beautifull home and garden !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you so much virginie for leaving such a sweet, heartfelt comment. i'm so glad something i said resonated with you. my blog has turned into my journal which is weird and wonderful in its own way. again thanks for visiting. x

      Delete
  25. So, the Giver received a gift!

    Our oceans of wild purple asters haven't started blooming yet - you've reminded me of something to look forward to.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Love the images that you have shared with us...I am drawn to the white and green flower, it's so beautiful!
    A positive attitude is so important when it comes to our well being. We all know gloomy people who do not find joy in the simple things that we encounter in our daily round. You are wise to get out into Nature. Walking outdoors uplifts my spirits when they are flagging and has such a gentle calming effect...it's better than anything else that i have tried!
    Hang in there...

    ReplyDelete
  27. Janet, I always enjoy reading a new post from you. The pictures in this one remind me of your commitment to vegetarianism/vegan and a simple lifestyle. Would you be willing to give a refresher course here on your blog? I am committing to changing my diet because of really feeling awful physically the past few months, along with the realization that my frame of mind has been sinking along with my energy and focus. Thanks for any tips as I start this new journey.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thank you brenhna. yes, i promise to write a post about my vegan commitment. it is stronger than ever now being in this glorious place so full of beautiful wildlife.

      Delete
  28. What beautiful surroundings! It all looks so lush! Your attitude and iron will always inspire me. Do you think that going for a hike is better therapy than carbs and shopping? :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i don't know which is better. :) between my sore knees, hips and blisters a day of carbs and shopping is sounding so good. x

      Delete
  29. Hi Janet, I enjoy reading your blog so much. I wanted to suggest that you read Heidi. Perhaps you already have. It is not simply a child's book. Very deep and thought provoking about the beauty that surrounds us. Perhaps it could help to uplift your spirit. Other than that I believe you need a little outdoor business as in maybe strategic gardening (ha). Anything small enough in size, with a vision, something to focus on. We all need to be doing and in all that beauty I'm thinking it might be too easy to get lost within it. That's why I think reading Heidi will be good. Contemplative. Enjoy. P.S. took care of my 95 year old Granny this past year. She had Alzheimer's and was completely dependent. I have five children (ages 7-20, in the home). Wonderful experience for all of us. Nearly killed me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. laughing that it almost killed you! i will def check out heidi. i'm not even sure i read it as a child altho i do remember the movie. thanks for the suggestion. x

      Delete
  30. hi Janet! I think it is totally okay to feel homesick! You love caring for your father-in-law but you also miss you town, your job, your home and yard, your other family. Hang in there! Don't be so hard on yourself! You and your husband are where you are needed for now and that is very wonderful and generous and a gift for all involved but still.....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thanks janie, who would have ever thought i'd miss my job but i DO! i miss my clients so much. x

      Delete
  31. you are adorable...and you have found a soulful place to go with your soulful heart

    ReplyDelete
  32. Hi girl what a world of difference from snow to greenery.... And yes indeed such a view of beauty, a place one could sit a listen to natures sounds, but righ about now I hear the sweet longing for your blacl bean cottage.
    I wish you could go home for a long weekend to recharge then return to the mountain feeling better about getting intouch with yourself and your home.

    You sport the best of sports ware to hike or walk in, love the worn feel to your thin T, again always finding the deals....I am sure it won't take up to much room in your sweet closet.

    See you soon, I do have to mention when I see that mountain side view I bet you feel like singing the hills are alive with the sound of music :)

    Xoxo
    Dore

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. you are so right re the sound of music. i swear to you it's just like that movie here. i expect julie andrews to pop out and start singing all the time! L found a rock for you but it's a little too big so we are always on the hunt for a better one. i'll let you know when i find it. x

      Delete
  33. Supposidly the mountains of Utah are the greenest that they have been in years. Looks like you are taking full advantage of them while remaining positive about your present situation.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. yes, they haven't been this green in 2 years that's for sure. they are spectacular. x

      Delete
  34. Life has many hard realities and changes. Your perspective and self correction is much admired. There are not many blogs like yours, unfortunately. I am always so happy when you have a new post. Mediocre greatness and wisdom!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. awww thanks mary. i do strive for that mediocre balance. :) x

      Delete
  35. Yay! Nature for the win! Beautiful...

    ReplyDelete
  36. You've been away from home for quite a while now so it's not surprising that you are feeling rather homesick. You have created your home with such care that no matter how beautiful the nature around you at the moment it is natural to miss your own home. Some periods of life are tricky, I remember similar times with my elderly mother, but they are very worthwhile. You will be able to look back at this period and know that you did everything for the best.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i know with the experience of caring for my own mother that it is a rewarding experience. it's not easy every single day but most days are really good here. thanks R for your sweet comment. x

      Delete
    2. i know with the experience of caring for my own mother that it is a rewarding experience. it's not easy every single day but most days are really good here. thanks R for your sweet comment. x

      Delete
  37. Peace be with you, Janet. I feel calm after reading your posts, especially the reminders of appreciating and being grateful for what you have.Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  38. It's totally gorgeous. And you aren't at home. And that's tough. You are definitely making the most of it, opening yourself to the light and beauty around you.

    ReplyDelete

kindness is never out of style.

Back to Top