Wrapping Up The Perfect Sunday Morning

The wrapping paper is either recycled, repurposed or put away for next year, but I find my mind wrapping up the year we are about to put behind us. I have a list of want to's, hope to's, plan to's and to do's forming in my mind, and today I'm getting a running jump on my list. Actually, more like a hiking jump.

After breakfast, (yes, that is coffee. We've started drinking it again, but only on Sundays, and only with a depressant like Irish Cream.)

we hit the trail. We live on the edge of the American River Canyon, where there is an amazing network of trails to explore. My favorite right now is the Manzanita Trail. I'll give you one guess how it got it's name.

My nephew joined us on our hike, and he informed me that the manzanita tree is informally known as the Refrigerator Tree, for it's bark is always cold. Smooth to the touch also, and such a beautiful shade of reddish brown; the perfect compliment to its sage green leaves.

One of my goals for the new year is to hit this trail at least twice a week. It is the best thing I can do for my mind, body and soul. Few activities make me so happy, and a happy mommy is the best gift I can give my family.

As a bonus, I think I've scouted the perfect meeting place for a Stitch-n-Bitch group (another hope-to for the new year), because knitting with friends is another way to make mommy happy. It's quiet, has plenty of natural light and a great view. I could sit here and knit for hours. Anyone interested? If you bring a thermos of coffee, I'll bring a flask of Irish Cream. Sounds like a perfect Sunday morning to me.