January – A Snowy Beginning
The year began with an adventure before we even reached the airport.
Esther was attending a scientific conference in San Diego, and we left Athens for the drive to Atlanta just as a winter storm swept across Georgia. Snow covered the roads, traffic slowed to a crawl, and what should have been a routine drive took an hour and a half longer than usual. Fortunately, we made our flight, although it felt like the vacation had already begun before we even left home.
While Esther spent her days attending conference sessions, I wandered through San Diego’s historic Old Town, enjoying the preserved Spanish architecture, museums, and lively restaurants. California always seems to have a different pace of life, and Old Town is a wonderful place to simply stroll and soak it all in.
After the conference we drove north to visit Lisa and Millie, Eric’s sister and mother. It was wonderful catching up over lunch before continuing our journey to Temecula, where we had rented a VRBO for several days.
From there we explored the California coastline, spent time relaxing on the beach, and made a memorable trip into Joshua Tree National Park. The massive rock formations, twisted Joshua trees, and endless desert landscapes were unlike anywhere else we’d been.
Back home, Esther and I completed the Classic City Half Marathon together. I wasn’t trying to set any speed records, but I was pleased to cross the finish line in under four hours—a satisfying accomplishment to start the year.
February – Love and Loss
February brought one of the saddest days of the year.
Our beloved Doberman, Cleo, lost her battle with cancer at nine years old. She had been part of our family for so long that the house suddenly felt quiet and empty without her. Anyone who has loved a dog understands that losing one leaves a hole far larger than most people expect.
A few weeks later we escaped to Florida for Valentine’s Day. Rick and Alice invited us to spend several days with them in the charming fishing town of Apalachicola.
We brought our bicycles and spent hours exploring the quiet coastal roads before enjoying a wonderful Valentine’s dinner together at the historic Gibson Inn. Good friends, beautiful weather, fresh seafood, and romantic surroundings made it a trip we’ll always remember.
March – New Life
Spring brought happier moments.
Andy and Jen had several newborn lambs that needed bottle feeding, and I happily volunteered to help. There is something remarkably peaceful about caring for young animals, and spending time with the lambs was a welcome reminder that every spring brings new beginnings.
Esther and I also escaped for several days to Travelers Rest, South Carolina, where we stayed at the Travelers Rest Inn and rode the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The beautifully maintained rail trail carried us through forests, parks, and small towns, making for several days of enjoyable cycling.
Back home, Esther finally had exterior stairs added to the back of her house. It seems like a small project, but it dramatically improved access to the backyard and made the house much more functional.
Near the end of the month we attended Shellfest 4, a fundraiser supporting Shell to Shore, an organization that recycles oyster shells to help restore coastal oyster reefs. The oysters were absolutely delicious, and it felt good knowing our evening out also supported an important environmental cause.