Nani ke kanaka a me ka naʻau 🌺 Beautiful is the person and the heart. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Hawaiʻi is filled with breathtaking views, but what stood out to us most was the beauty of the people ,the kindness, the warmth, and the spirit of aloha. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
If you really want to experience the beauty of Hawaiʻi, take the time to slow down and connect. Talk with the people. Listen to their stories. Let them talk story..which is sharing pieces of their life, their island, their history.So much rich detail in these moments . That’s where the real beauty lives✨
Not just in the landscapes…but in the voices, the laughter, and the hearts of the people who call these islands home.
A sweet reminder that true beauty isn’t just what we see… it’s how we love. 💛
A simple moment at Starbucks turned into a powerful reminder about kindness, encouragement, and the impact of speaking life into someone else. This faith filled reflection explores why small moments of love and courage can plant seeds we may never see grow.
We were drawn to the Moana Surfrider Hotel, not just for its stunning oceanfront location on Waikiki Beach , but for the history it holds and to step into a piece of history that has stood for over a century .One that has welcomed travelers long before Waikiki became what it is today.
For our family, it was the perfect combination of everything we love: history to learn from, beauty to take in, and a location that simply can’t be matched.
The Moana Surfrider Hotel is one of the very first hotels built in Waikiki, Oahu and because of that, it holds an incredibly special place in Hawaiian history. Opened in 1901, it is often referred to as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” Long before high-rise resorts lined the shoreline, the Moana stood as a grand beacon of luxury on what was once a quiet stretch of beach.
It is absolutely beautiful and sits directly on Waikiki Beach, blending Victorian elegance with the relaxed rhythm of island life.
When we walked in, we immediately felt like we had stepped back in time. The wide open lobby, high ceilings, and sweeping staircase reflect the hotel’s original Victorian architectural style, which was quite a statement in the early 1900s. At the time it was built, arriving guests would travel by ship and horse-drawn carriage . Can you imagine stepping off a boat and into this grand oceanfront retreat?
As we walked through the lobby and out the back doors, we were greeted by a spacious veranda lined with rocking chairs … one of my favorite details. Sitting there with coffee in hand felt like slowing down time and savoring it in the best way.
The famous Banyan tree is front and center welcoming all to the natural beauty of the Island . Planted in 1904, just a few years after the hotel opened, the Banyan tree has grown into a massive, breathtaking centerpiece of the courtyard. Its branches stretch wide and welcoming, creating shade and a gathering place for generations of visitors. It’s incredible to think how many stories that tree has witnessed over more than a century.We felt so privileged to be able to stand there where so many others had gathered before.
The outside pool is beautiful …you can swim while looking out at the Pacific Ocean, or simply walk a few steps and be right on Waikiki Beach itself. That seamless connection between historic elegance and oceanfront beauty is part of what makes this place so special.
The hotel reminded me of a beautiful old-style mansion , the kind filled with stories. Oh if the walls could talk! Over the decades it has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and travelers from around the world. Even through renovations and modernization, the Moana Surfrider has intentionally preserved its historic charm.
Staying here (or even just visiting) isn’t just about enjoying a beautiful resort , it’s about stepping into a piece of Hawaiian history.
But the story doesn’t stop at the hotel itself ✨
Waikiki: From Royal Retreat to World Destination
Long before Waikiki became a world-famous travel destination, it was actually a retreat for Hawaiian royalty. The area was once filled with wetlands and fishponds, and Hawaiian aliʻi (chiefs and royalty) would come here to relax and surf.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Waikiki began transforming as tourism grew. When the Moana Surfrider opened in 1901, it became the very first large hotel in the area, setting the stage for Waikiki’s future. At that time, there were no high-rise hotels, no bustling Kalakaua Avenue , just ocean, palm trees, and this grand white hotel standing proudly along the shore.
Over the years, Waikiki evolved into the vibrant destination we know today. But the Moana Surfrider still stands as a reminder of the beginning …a place where history hasn’t been forgotten.It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the things I love most about staying somewhere historic is the opportunity to turn it into a living history lesson.
📚 A Living History Lesson Here are a few simple ways to make this educational:
History
Research Hawaii’s transition from a monarchy to a U.S. territory (1898) and then to statehood (1959).
Study Hawaiian royalty and learn about Queen Liliʻuokalani.
Compare what travel looked like in 1901 vs. today.
Geography
Locate Oahu on a map and identify other Hawaiian islands. Study volcanic island formation.
Architecture
Look up Victorian architectural elements and identify them in the hotel design.
Writing Prompt for Kids
“Imagine you are arriving at the Moana Surfrider in 1901. Write a journal entry about your first impressions.”
If you find yourself in Waikiki, don’t just admire the beach , step inside the Moana Surfrider. Sit under the Banyan tree. Imagine the year 1901.
Travel becomes unforgettable when it connects beauty with learning.
The Moana Surfrider is so much more than just a beautiful place to stay. It’s steeped in rich history✨
The same God who was writing stories here over a hundred years ago is still writing them today , even in our own family’s journey.
That’s what I’ll carry with me most from this visit … not just the ocean views or the historic charm, but the reminder that God is present in every season… past and present.
And when we choose to travel with intention, to learn, to reflect, and to be present , those moments become more than memories.They become part of the story we’re living, too.
Check out our reel of this beautiful Hotel ⬇️ and be sure to subscribe 🩷
Recently I was sitting at Starbucks doing some planning when I overheard a conversation at the table next to me. A teenage girl was talking with her friend about the dynamics of her family.
I tried not to listen, but certain phrases caught my attention.
“My dad doesn’t really know how to love.”
“He isn’t kind.”
“I think my mom’s favorite is my sister… she doesn’t really talk to me.”
My heart broke as I listened.
What struck me most was not that she sounded sad. Instead, she spoke as if she had already accepted this as normal, as if this was simply what family was supposed to be like. That’s what made my heart ache the most.
I sat there trying to gather the words I might say to her. I knew I couldn’t just let her leave thinking she was unlovable or that this was simply the way life had to be.
Quick words have never been my strength , so as I was trying to figure out what to say, I prayed a silent prayer.As she stood up to leave, I found the courage to speak.
“I’m so sorry but couldn’t help but to overhear part of your conversation. I just wanted to say I’m really sorry for what you’ve experienced.”
I apologized to her for the way she had been treated, even though I wasn’t the one who hurt her. I told her that sometimes people simply don’t know how to love well. But that she is worthy of love.
I told her she has the opportunity to learn something different through this pain and to become someone who loves well, even if she didn’t receive it herself.
She thanked me and was very kind.
But as she walked away, I immediately thought of all the things I should have said.
I should have asked if I could give her a hug.
I wish I had shared my faith more clearly.
Instead, I tried to find a way to connect with her without sounding like some strange woman inserting myself into her life in a random moment .. but then it made me think.. why? Why was I worried over that instead of looking at it as an opportunity to love?
Why is it sometimes so hard to encourage others or show love , especially to people we don’t know?
There so many people who have accepted the lie that they are unlovable and for so many reasons . Sometimes it’s because of circumstances.Sometimes it’s self-preservation.Sometimes it’s simply the story they’ve been told long enough to believe.
But what if we chose to love people and to step out of our comfort zones ?
Even strangers.
What if one small moment of kindness could change the direction of someone’s life?
Recently I’ve been reading about D.L. Moody, and one story about him stood out to me. Early in his life, an elderly man gave him a single penny just for walking with him, listening, and encouraging him in his faith.
It was such a small interaction.
Yet Moody never forgot it.
I’ve also been reading the book The Body Keeps Score, which discusses how early environments shape behavior. One study described two groups of mice: one raised in a nest with warmth and plenty of food, and another raised in a poor, stressful environment.
When both groups were frightened by a loud noise, they ran back to their nests ,whether the environment was good or bad.
It made me pause.
Even when something is unhealthy, we often return to what feels familiar.
Maybe that teenage girl has learned to run back to the only “home” she knows …even if it isn’t the love she deserves.
And maybe that’s why small moments of kindness matter more than we realize.
A word.
An apology.
A reminder that someone is worthy of love.
Perhaps those moments plant seeds that grow later.
And maybe the next time I feel the nudge to speak kindness into someone’s life, I won’t hesitate.
Because sometimes a single moment of love or kindness can echo far longer than we could ever imagine ❤️
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
Have you ever had a moment where you felt prompted to encourage a stranger? Or where a stranger’s kindness impacted you?
A simple moment at Starbucks turned into a powerful reminder about kindness, encouragement, and the impact of speaking life into someone else. This faith filled reflection explores why small moments of love and courage can plant seeds we may never see grow.
We’ve been on a mission to visit all of the American Girl stores across the United States, and on our recent trip we were able to check the American Girl Dallas location off our list.
Oh my goodness—it was such a beautiful store! I mean, who am I kidding? They are all beautiful. But right when you walk in, you’re greeted by a bright, open space with the café off to the left. This was actually the first time we’ve seen the café positioned so openly near the entrance. When the store was still in Seattle, the café was on the same floor but still felt a little more tucked away.
Everything felt bright and inviting. We loved the wall filled with picture frames of past dolls and books—it was such a fun way to celebrate the history of the brand.
It was also fun exploring all the different themed rooms throughout the store. One of our favorite discoveries was a party room set up for a special gingerbread house event. It looked like the perfect place for a doll-themed celebration.
Gingerbread house decorating
One of the things that makes the Dallas store extra special is that it’s part of the newer American Girl experiential store design. The two-level space is about 14,700 square feet and even includes a stunning floor-to-ceiling dollhouse display that stretches between the floors. Between the full café with tea trays and treats, the Doll Salon where girls and dolls can get matching hairstyles, and all the fun photo spots throughout the store, it really feels like stepping into a unique doll world.
Floor to ceiling doll house✨
One of my girls’ absolute favorite parts was the oversized book seat. We seriously need one of those in our house! It looked like a giant open storybook that you could actually sit on, which made for such a fun photo moment.
Book bench! It’s a Samantha book 📕
Next, we headed up the staircase, which was again lined with beautiful framed images of the dolls and their books. On the second floor is where you’ll find the doll hair salon, which is the perfect stop to have your doll styled while you continue shopping.
Love this wall!!
There were so many fun things to choose from—it was honestly hard to decide. But I think that’s always the case whenever we visit one of the American Girl Doll stores!
Such a glam elevator
As I watched my girls explore the world of American Girl —from the dolls and stories to the little details that spark imagination—it reminded me how special these moments of childhood are. There is something beautiful about watching kids step into stories, dream big, and create their own adventures.
Book love
Sometimes as parents we get busy planning the trip, managing the schedule, or figuring out the next stop. But moments like this remind me to pause and simply enjoy watching them experience wonder.
Childhood is such a gift, and these little adventures—whether it’s a hike, a road trip, or even a visit to a doll store—become memories that stay with our families for years to come.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” James 1:17
If you’re planning a visit to the American Girl store in Dallas, here are a few tips that can help make the experience even more special.
🫖 Make Café Reservations
The in-store café is a popular spot for families. If you plan to enjoy tea, lunch, or a special treat with your doll, it’s a good idea to reserve a table ahead of time. The tiered trays with tea sandwiches and desserts make it such a memorable experience for girls and their dolls.
💇 Bring Your Doll for the Salon
Upstairs you’ll find the Dolled Up Salon, where dolls can get their hair styled. From simple brushing and braids to more elaborate looks, it’s a fun experience that makes the visit feel extra special.
⏰ Plan Enough Time to Explore
Give yourself at least 1–2 hours to explore the whole store. Between the displays, the dollhouse area, the salon, and all the shopping options, there’s a lot to see.
🎉 Check for Special Events
The Dallas location sometimes hosts seasonal activities and themed events, like crafting or holiday celebrations. If your trip lines up with one of these, it can make your visit even more memorable.
📸 Bring Your Camera
There are so many adorable photo opportunities throughout the store, especially if your kids love capturing memories with their dolls.
🧳 Bring an extra suitcase
We learned this lesson the hard way! If you are planning to shop then make sure you can fit what you purchase in your luggage . It’s always good to have some extra space just to be sure.
Best Photo Spots in the American Girl Dallas Store 📸
If your kids love photos (or if you’re a blogging mom like me!), there are several fun spots throughout the store that make perfect picture moments.
📚 The Oversized Storybook Bench
One of our favorite spots was the giant open book seat. It looks like you’re sitting inside a storybook and makes such a fun and unique photo.
🏠 The Two-Story Dollhouse
The large two-level dollhouse display is one of the coolest features of the Dallas store. It’s colorful, detailed, and a great backdrop for photos.
🎨 The Dear Giana Mural
The bright mural by local teen artist Dear Giana adds so much personality to the store. It’s colorful and fun and makes a great backdrop.
💇 The Salon Area
If your doll is getting a hairstyle at the salon, be sure to snap a photo of the transformation!
📖 The Doll & Book Wall
The wall filled with framed pictures of American Girl dolls and their books is both beautiful and nostalgic—especially for longtime fans of the brand.
Love the star seats!
These moments of laughter, imagination, and time together truly are gifts.
Check out our review of the American Girl Los Angeles store ⬇️
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and home to the only whale sharks in the United States. We were so excited to have the opportunity to add this stop to our travel plans.
Located in downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park, it’s one of the most popular attractions for families visiting the city.
From massive ocean exhibits to interactive experiences and live shows, it offers a unique opportunity to see marine life up close while learning more about ocean conservation.
Manta ray gliding through the water 💦
The whale sharks are definitely a highlight. They are massive, and it was beautiful to see their spots reflecting in the water as they swam by. Watching them glide past the enormous viewing windows was a reminder that creation doesn’t need to shout to show God’s power—you see it in the gentleness and the quiet moments that leave an unforgettable impact.
Beautiful whale shark …look at the hand pointing in the left corner to get a glimpse of the comparison of size of these gentle giants
There was something incredibly humbling about standing still while these gentle giants moved so effortlessly through the water. It was breathtaking.
The Georgia Aquarium is one of those places that invites awe and wonder for both kids and parents alike. It slows you down in the best way.
I’m so thankful we had the opportunity to experience it as a family. What a wonderful blessing this stop on our trip turned out to be.
We arrived later in the day, so unfortunately we missed several of the live shows. If you’re planning a visit, I definitely recommend arriving earlier so you can experience everything the aquarium offers.
One of our absolute favorite parts was the underwater tunnel, where you walk through as manta rays, sharks, and stingrays glide overhead. We could have sat right there in the middle for hours just watching them. They were massive—and completely mesmerizing.
Moments like that make it impossible not to reflect on how creative and intricate God is. The diversity, the size, the beauty — all of it points to a Creator who delights in detail.
“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”
Psalm 104:24 (NIV)
After spending a day exploring the incredible exhibits, watching whale sharks glide by, and imagining what a sleepover underwater would be like, it’s easy to feel inspired and amazed. But planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium can feel a little overwhelming if you’re bringing the whole family.
To make your trip smoother and more enjoyable, here are some practical tips and recommendations for families, including what to see, when to go, and how to make the most of your day.
Practical Tips for Visiting Georgia Aquarium With Kids
Best Exhibits for Families
Ocean Voyager
Start here. It’s the most jaw-dropping and can get crowded later in the day.
Cold Water Quest
Beluga whales are always a hit with younger kids.
Shark Gallery
Great for older kids learning about predators and ecosystems.
Tropical Diver
Bright, colorful, and perfect for littles who love finding “Nemo” style fish.
What Makes It Special
Whale sharks (the largest fish in the ocean) Massive floor-to-ceiling viewing windows Beluga whales Manta rays and sharks Interactive touch pools Dolphin presentations (check schedule in advance)
Best time to go
Go early for calmer crowds Start with Ocean Voyager before kids get tired .Try planning around the morning or evening hours.
Take breaks—there are quiet, dark rooms that help regulate sensory overload
Bring snacks (or plan a food stop nearby)
Strollers are allowed, but baby carriers are easier in crowds
Where to park
Georgia Aquarium has a main parking garage located at 357 Luckie Street NW. This multi-level deck includes general parking in addition to spots dedicated to electric vehicle charging and disability parking. There are also elevators on every level for easy access to the main entrance.
Purchase your parking in advance to save time
Behind the Seas Tours
This tour gives visitors a chance to see what happens behind the scenes of the aquarium.
During this guided tour, guests can explore areas that aren’t normally open to the public and learn more about how the aquarium cares for its animals and maintains the massive habitats throughout the facility. It’s a fascinating opportunity for anyone curious about marine life, conservation, and the work that goes into running such an incredible place.
For those who enjoy learning more about marine science or simply want a deeper look at the aquarium beyond the exhibits, the Behind the Seas tour offers a unique perspective and a greater appreciation for the care and effort that goes into protecting these animals.
For homeschool families especially, this tour could be a wonderful opportunity to see the science and care behind maintaining such a large marine environment.
Sleepover: Sleep under the Sea
One experience we thought sounded especially unique was the Sleep Under the Sea program. Instead of counting sheep, guests get the chance to fall asleep while watching fish glide by the massive aquarium windows.
During this overnight experience, guests arrive in the evening and enjoy special access to the aquarium after hours. The sleepover includes admission beginning around 6:45 p.m. the evening of your stay, along with access to the aquarium again the following day.
Throughout the evening, participants can enjoy presentations, guided tours, activities, a bedtime snack, and even a complimentary breakfast the next morning. One of the most memorable parts is rolling out your sleeping bag right in front of one of the aquarium’s incredible gallery windows and drifting off to sleep while the marine life moves quietly through the water.
If we get the opportunity to go back, this is the one we would do! What an amazing opportunity!!
Animal Encounters
For families looking for an even more memorable experience, they also offer several animal encounters that allow visitors to get closer to some of the aquarium’s most incredible marine life.
These experiences are guided by staff and give guests the opportunity to learn more about the animals while seeing them up close in a unique way.
Dolphin Encounter
One of the most popular experiences is the dolphin encounter. During this program, visitors can step into shallow water and interact with the dolphins while learning about their behaviors, training, and conservation efforts.
Sea Lion Encounter
The sea lion encounter allows guests to go behind the scenes and see these playful animals up close while learning about how the trainers care for them and the important role aquariums play in protecting marine life.
Beluga Whale Encounter
This is a truly special opportunity to see the beautiful beluga whales up close. Guests can observe and interact with the whales alongside trained staff while learning about their unique characteristics and natural habitats.
Shark and Ray Experiences
The aquarium also offers experiences where guests can safely get closer to sharks or rays while learning about their role in ocean ecosystems and the importance of protecting these misunderstood animals.
Tips for Booking Animal Encounters
Animal encounters are separate experiences and require an additional reservation and fee beyond general admission. These spots can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
If you’re interested in one of these encounters, it’s best to reserve your spot in advance through the aquarium’s website or guest services when planning your visit.
Even if you don’t book an encounter, simply watching these animals in their exhibits is an unforgettable experience ✨
Although we didn’t book an animal encounter during our visit, it’s definitely something we would consider on a future trip because it would be such a unique experience for kids.
Swims & Dives
For those looking for a truly unforgettable adventure, they even offer the opportunity to SCUBA dive with whale sharks and manta rays inside the Ocean Voyager habitat.
This incredible experience allows certified divers to enter the massive tank and swim alongside some of the aquarium’s most impressive animals, including the gentle whale sharks and graceful manta rays. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these animals from a completely different perspective.
The aquarium’s Dive Immersion team guides participants through the entire process, providing instruction, answering questions, and ensuring safety throughout the dive.
Because this program is very popular, reservations are limited and spots can fill up quickly. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s best to check availability and reserve in advance when planning your visit.
For those who aren’t certified divers but still want a closer experience with the animals, the aquarium also offers a snorkeling program inside the same Ocean Voyager habitat.
Live Shows
In addition to the exhibits, the Georgia Aquarium also offers two popular live shows: the dolphin show and the sea lion show. These performances are a fun way to see the animals’ intelligence and personalities up close, and they are definitely worth planning your visit around.
Show times vary throughout the day, and the final show is usually scheduled sometime between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on the day. During most visits, the last show tends to be around 4:00 p.m., but schedules can change, so it’s always best to check the daily schedule when you arrive.
The shows are included with general admission, but you will need to reserve your seats through the aquarium’s app or reservation system once inside the aquarium. Spots can fill up quickly, especially during busy travel seasons, so it’s a good idea to book your show as soon as you arrive.
Unfortunately, we arrived later in the day and missed the shows, but it’s definitely something we would plan around on our next visit.
Conservation Efforts
We really appreciated how much the aquarium emphasizes conservation efforts throughout the exhibits. Caring for our oceans and wildlife is something that affects all of us, yet there aren’t always many opportunities to learn about it in such a meaningful way. Seeing these incredible animals up close while learning how we can help protect them was a powerful reminder of the responsibility we have to care for creation❤️
Here are just a few ways they are doing this ⬇️
Marine Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation
The aquarium works with partners to help rescue and rehabilitate injured or stranded marine animals. For example, they have assisted with the care and treatment of stranded sea lion pups and sea otters before the animals are returned to the wild whenever possible.
They also partner with conservation groups to support sea turtle monitoring and protection programs along the Georgia coast.
Whale Shark Research
Because the aquarium houses whale sharks, scientists are able to study their health, genetics, and behavior in ways that would be nearly impossible in the open ocean.
Researchers track whale sharks in the wild using satellite tags and have studied over 1,000 whale sharks in the Yucatán Peninsula to better understand migration and feeding patterns.
This research helps scientists learn more about a species that is still largely mysterious.
These are just to name a few . Check out their website for more ways they are helping ✨
Our visit to the Georgia Aquarium was truly unforgettable. From the majestic whale sharks to the playful manta rays and the behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, it’s a place that invites awe, curiosity, and plenty of family memories.
If you’re planning your own trip, you can find more information, book tickets, and check daily show schedules here ⬇️
And if you can’t make it in person—or just want a sneak peek before your visit—be sure to check out the live feed below. Watching these gentle giants glide through the water is mesmerizing and a great way to share a little bit of the aquarium magic with the whole family from home✨
No matter how you experience it—online or in person—the Georgia Aquarium is a place where wonder and learning meet, and it’s perfect for kids, homeschoolers, and families who love exploring the natural world together ✨
We headed straight to Snoqualmie Falls Brewery for some much-needed refueling after our hike . One of our favorite things at the time of our visit, was the beer flight they offered—brews named after popular local mountains that were part of our hiking goals.How cool is that!
Looking back now, it feels extra special. By God’s grace, we’ve since tackled Mailbox Peak, Haystack (at least partially!), and Mount Si. Which means… I think it’s officially time for another trip back to celebrate again.
There’s just something fun about ending a hike with good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a shared moment to reflect on what your body just accomplished. Enjoying an incredible dinner here felt like the perfect way to close out the day.
If you’re in the Snoqualmie area and spending time on the trails, this spot is absolutely worth adding to your list.
Looking for a beautiful place to stay in the area? Check out our favorite place to stay in the area and our full review ⬇️
Before the responsibilities start calling our name.
Psalms 143 reminds me that the first voice I need to hear each day is not the voice of the world — but the voice of the Lord. David’s prayer is simple and honest: Let me hear of your unfailing love. Not productivity. Not success. Not answers to every question. Just love.
Isn’t that what our hearts truly need?
When we begin the day grounded in God’s steadfast love, everything shifts. Our worries shrink. Our plans loosen their grip. Our striving softens. Trust grows.
And then comes the second request: Show me the way I should go.
Not five years from now. Not the full blueprint. Just the next faithful step.
That’s how walking with God works. Daily dependence. Morning by morning mercy. Guidance that meets us in real time.
Psalm 143:8 is a posture prayer. It’s surrender before strategy. Trust before timeline. It is choosing to entrust our lives — the messy, unfinished, beautiful whole of it — into faithful hands.
So tomorrow morning, before your feet hit the floor, whisper it:
“Lord, let me hear of Your unfailing love. Show me the way I should go.”
Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent ,a season in the Christian calendar that invites us into reflection, repentance, and remembering our need for God.
I didn’t grow up observing Ash Wednesday. In fact, I never even heard much about it. But as I’ve grown older in my faith, I’ve come to deeply appreciate what this season represents ,especially the practice of lament.
One of my new favorite resources this past year has been The Worship Initiative. A friend shared it with me, and recently they’ve been doing a series on lament. In one episode,Mark Vroegop (author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy) shared a powerful definition:
“Lament is a prayer in pain that leads to trust.”
Pause on that for a moment.
A prayer.
In pain.
That leads to trust.
Not a denial of pain.
Not pretending everything is fine.
Not rushing to a quick spiritual answer.
Lament gives us language for the hard things ,the unanswered questions, the disappointments, the grief, the confusion. It teaches us that we can bring all of it to God.
Psalm 13: A Pattern for Lament
In the Book of Psalms chapter 13, David begins with raw honesty:
“How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?”
He asks questions.
He expresses sorrow.
He feels forgotten.
But the psalm doesn’t end there.
It ends in trust:
“But I trust in your unfailing love…”
That’s the movement of lament.
From pain → to prayer → to trust.
Not because circumstances changed instantly.
But because the heart turned toward God.
Why Lament Matters
Ash Wednesday reminds us that we are dust. That we are fragile. That we are not in control.
And lament gives us permission to bring that fragility to God.
We don’t have to only pray polished prayers.
We don’t have to only thank Him when things are good.
We can say, “How long?”
We can say, “I don’t understand.”
We can say, “This hurts.”
And still — we can trust.
Check out The Worship Initiative on the link below and go to Monday 16 to hear this beautiful psalm in song form. It’s one of my new favorites ✨
Snowshoeing at Crystal Mountain was quite the adventure for our family. We arrived early and found parking in the lot where the snowshoe routes start which was a huge blessing!
We geared up and then headed toward the Bullion Basin snowshoe route. We decided to do the Blue Bell Loop since it was our first time snowshoeing this area.
As we climbed higher, the views began peeking out everywhere. Openings in the trees revealed layers of snow-covered ridgelines, and on clear days you can catch breathtaking glimpses of Mount Rainier rising in the distance like we did …amazing!!Each clearing felt like a reward for the work it took to get there.
Bullion Basin isn’t a flat winter stroll. It’s a steady uphill climb that definitely gets your heart rate up. But that’s part of what made it feel like an accomplishment. The higher we climbed, the better the views became.
Near the top, parts of the route connected with ski terrain, so the trail became shared with skiers descending. Staying alert added a layer of awareness that kept us moving and paying attention.
And then came the descent.
It was steep — especially with packed snow underfoot. We took our time, used trekking poles, encouraged each other, and carefully made our way down. Snowshoeing downhill can sometimes feel trickier than the climb up, but slow and steady wins.I switched to my spikes and was much more confident going down.
By the time we reached the bottom, our legs were tired, our cheeks were cold, and we were ready for a warm cup of Cocoa and /or Coffee.
Crystal Mountain operates a reservation-based parking system during peak winter season (especially weekends and holidays).
Parking fees typically range from $10–$40 depending on demand and lot location.
Carpool vehicles (4+ people) may qualify for free parking in select lots.
Reservations should be made online in advance.
Arriving early is highly recommended.
What to Bring
Snowshoes
Trekking poles (very helpful for descent)
Waterproof layers
Warm gloves and hat
Snacks and water
Microspikes for icy conditions or for descending
Winter adventures like this stretch everyone — physically and mentally — but they also build confidence and shared memories that last long after the snow melts.
If you’re looking for a Washington winter adventure that feels both challenging and rewarding, Bullion Basin at Crystal Mountain is absolutely worth adding to your list.
