Happy Monday! After a busy but rewarding weekend filled with church and activities at our new concert house (I recently started an Instagram for it at voyageconcerthouse), we treated our hardworking family to an afternoon in the sun. Jack came along, and it was the best day for him.
Warm, sunny spring afternoons are rare here in the Northwest, so we made the most of every minute. After church on Sunday we drove up to Poulsbo and spent time along the waterfront before our girls returned to their homes, school, and routines. I’m always thankful they come home on weekends to help with the church; it’s such a gift to share family moments like these, especially when the weather cooperates.
My son’s highlight was climbing a giant rock—he couldn’t have been more thrilled. There’s something pure and joyful about boys and dogs playing outside together.
We took Jack down to the water. He enjoyed it, but he was a bit terrified of going all the way down—dragging his feet and keeping very low to the ground. It was hilarious to watch; he looked like he thought he was walking a plank. The moment we turned to head back, he sprinted up to the park as if nothing had happened.
Jack is still a puppy and tends to be a bit of a scaredy-cat. New experiences make him nervous, and he can be a big baby about unfamiliar things. Yet watching the breeze ruffle through his wild fur made me smile—this was one of the first times we took him on a full family outing, and he loved being included. He really is a family dog.
At the park Jack was a big hit. People stopped to admire him and say hello. We kept him on a short leash because he wanted to bolt off and play with other dogs—he would have loved the freedom to explore. It was a great chance for him to learn better greetings and meet new dogs; his manners are improving every outing.
The park offered great climbing trees, which were a thrill since we don’t have those at home. Both the tree and the rock were big hits with the kids.
On the drive home Jack cuddled up to his sister, as he always does. He loves being close to family—often with a paw draped over someone or curled in a lap with a toy. Despite the mischief he causes around the house, he’s a sweetheart.
With Easter and spring break wrapped up, I’m ready to dive back into finishing my home office—though I also need to tackle taxes this week. Last-minute tax tasks are never fun, but I’m grateful to have our own businesses even if writing checks isn’t pleasant.
I hope you all had a blessed Easter and a refreshing spring break.