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“Because I carry it well doesn’t mean it’s not heavy.”

– Unknown

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The Smile of Fear

This is not AI, people. Let’s begin by saying Rachel is terrified of snakes. Like, really terrified. So terrified that her hiking adventures in Utah have been nearly nil due to her fear of running into a snake. She’s working on getting out on the trails more. Anyway, it was a Sunday at Good Intentions Club and after yoga she saw people passing around this snake. Her name is Opportunity; she is a red tail boa and weighs 13 pounds. Rachel is all about facing fears nowadays and went straight over and asked to hold it. She nearly got sick and her heart rate skyrocketed, but she did it.

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Washington, She’s Back

Pictured above is the Puget Sound beyond the Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place, Washington. One of many favorite spots that Rachel loves taking walks.

Hello, Puget Sound

Last week, Rachel packed up Brady and Belichick and headed west, well, northwest to be exact. It was time to visit friends in Washington State. It’s been just short of a year since she relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah to live nearer her youngest son, Alec. Her friends, Jennie and Stephen, were kind enough to offer her and the cats a home during her stay in Washington.

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Cat Friendly Living

Jennie and Stephen’s home is very pet friendly. They have one dog and three cats. Brady and Belichick would stay in Rachel’s room to avoid any undesirable moments.

The room they stayed in was just the right size and had plenty for the boys to enjoy. Being a cat friendly room, the windows could remain open to allow the fresh PNW air to flow through freely. This also allowed for great views of the birds outside. When they were feeling a bit more introverted, they were able to climb into the desk drawer from the back. Rachel pulled out the drawer to snap a photo of them cuddling.

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The Beautiful Garden

The yard, both front and back, is a stunning array of flowers and bees. While Jennie will tell you she has neglected gardening this year, Rachel was thrilled to wander through the fragrant flowers and inhale deeply. She also snapped pictures of the honeybees and bumble bees. Zoom in for a good look.

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A Normal Cats Dream

The catio is another fantastic aspect of their home. Built in stages over the years, it has become a safe haven for the dog and cats. They can access the catio through the pet door and are safe from other creatures. Jennie and Rachel took Brady and Belichick out to let them explore. They didn’t get far. These two indoor cats had to be pulled out of holes to be brought back inside.

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Adventuring with Mira

Rachel’s first Saturday in Washington was spent with her long-time friend, Mira. Yes, Mira of Moments by Mira. Rachel and Mira have been friends going back to 2006. Remembering all of the adventures these two have had together is a trip. Most of these adventures are cataloged for all time in the My Monday Memo archives.

For their day together, they decided to visit a place they had never before explored. Point No Point. Point No Point is a county park in Hansville, Washington. This 61-acre park features a sandy beach, picnic areas, undeveloped saltwater access, parking lot and a historic lighthouse.

The drive to Point No Point was full of beautiful views; the trees, the water, the overcast skies. Just before reaching Point No Point, there is a house that was obviously constructed using a boat. Rachel would have loved to take a tour inside this home.

Upon arrival, the lighthouse and keeper living quarters were right there with a yard full of unique driftwood sculptures.

Mira and Rachel headed for the beach. They couldn’t wait to explore and enjoy the morning together.

As soon as they rounded the bend, the saw a group of people near the water. It appeared to be a wedding ceremony. Mira suggested they begin exploring in the opposite direction. Good idea. Rachel did snap a photo of the group later enjoying the post nuptial celebration. What a fantastic spot for a wedding.

From the beach was the best view of the lighthouse. It was quite small in stature compared to others Rachel has seen.

The beach exploration was full of fun and good finds. Enjoy the photos from the beach walk.

This was a fantastically fun beach walk. After they snapped a shadow photo together, they headed for their next stop in Poulsbo, Washington.

Poulsbo is a small tourist town with a population of 13,010. It is located in the northern part of Kitsap County and is 4.5 square miles in area. The city is known for its Scandinavian heritage that has earned it the nickname “Little Norway.” Mira and Rachel enjoyed exploring the shops, visiting the famous Sluys’ Bakery (always a line out the door) and enjoyed a pizza lunch before heading back to Mira’s house.

Rachel was thrilled to get to see Mira’s husband, Billy, and the kids, Aubrey and Zach. These two are now 13 and 11 years old, respectively. She couldn’t believe how grown up they looked. She still remembers the first time she met Aubrey as a wee baby. She also got to meet the new puppy, Birdy. How she got a picture with Birdy and not the kids, she doesn’t know. Hopefully, she will get to see them again before she heads back to Utah and will get a picture for the archives. Watching them grow has been a joy.

There is so much more fun to be had in the coming week. Next up, run club with Tacoma Run Club and getting to see her friend, Bill, again. She is beyond excited and a little bit popped. Until next time, be well.

Feel free to stick around (below) and like, rate, share and comment (direct to Rachel). She is always looking for content ideas and would love input.

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