Respite for the soul

For many of us, 2025 has been quite an eventful year already. With the Southern California fires, tax season, changes at work, and most recently, the loss of my sister, life has been somewhat draining.

This past weekend, my husband, niece, and one of our good friends went on a mini hike in the San Gabriel Mountains.  

Initially, it was difficult to convince all to get up and go for a hike, as we had spent a few hours earlier playing Pickleball. However, once we got there, it was exactly what all of us needed! We were able to walk along streams of running water, in the midst of all of the vibrant flowers. The amazing thing is that we didn’t come across anyone else on the hike; we had it entirely to ourselves.

There was such a profound beauty and serenity in the way the water flowed over the rocks. On the way back, we sat on the rocks, closed our eyes and soaked in the tranquility. It was divine.

For me, there is something so enchanting about streams of running water. What about you? Maybe your special place isn’t near water, but perhaps it’s catching a sunrise or sunset or on the edge of the mountains?

Are you in need of time away or rejuvenation? If so, Spring is a fabulous time to be in nature, especially as Spring has sprung! Springtime is my favorite time of the year! I find it enjoyable because of the comfortable temperatures, longer days, an overabundance of blooming flowers, and the promise of hope in the air.

After all, Spring is all about new beginnings and transformations. I appreciate that it symbolizes starting afresh. I know many in colder climates, as I am from Wisconsin (And some Californians, who can’t stand the cold. LOL.) feel the winter blues. Spring re-awakens us in our surrounding environment, bringing everything back to life.

I love the quote by Angie Weiland- Crosby, which says “In the springtime, the heart regrows hope."

Do you need to rekindle your hope? Do you need to do some spring cleaning literally or in your life? If so, I hope you’ll take the opportunity to pamper and replenish yourself to become a better version of yourself.