My husband and I have been out of town for a week, babysitting our youngest granddaughter who is 15 months old. It has been special to be with her, to have her by herself, to feel the hugs and cuddles and remember what it was like to be the parents of a toddler. The scenery change of Southport, NC, a small coastal town on the Atlantic, has been a delightful bonus. A great experience, both with the baby and the small town. We have enjoyed the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River nearby, Fort Johnston, and many meals of fresh seafood. After so many pandemic months, having time outside in a new environment has been enriching, much like our own retreat. Covid is still all around us, but being vaccinated has given us an opportunity to stretch forward, baby step by baby step. I hope you are finding joy in the summer weather wherever you are, grateful for what is. Continue to stay safe as you take each step back toward normalcy.