Wonderful memories can spring from the littlest things...

Though this is not likely to be a photo that I will ever offer for purchase on the website, it’s one that makes my heart smile.  You see, in our family, Redwood National and State Parks have always been a very special place.  Not only is it where my husband and I met and married, but we also took many family trips there while raising our children, long after we had moved away.

When our family would visit the redwoods, one of our family traditions was a friendly competition to see who could find the most banana slugs and who could find the first FRECKLED banana slug.  We could all get quite intense in our quest, while hiking the many beautiful trails.  In my minds eye, I still see my sons racing ahead of each other to try to spot slugs first in order to “win”.  I can hear my husband’s laughter and see his smile.  I remember as my husband and I gradually had to admit that our kids’ younger eyes could definitely spot the little creatures much better than ours could. 

A silly little tradition, but one of the many traditions that knit our family together over the years.  Laughter and smiles, shared in a uniquely special place, created memories that will last a lifetime.  For each of you reading this today, my wish is that you find your own sweet and/or silly ways to connect with family and friends, to build bonds and make memories that will bless you always.