we put on sweatshirts and rainy boots and headed to the water yesterday. there is so much exploring to do in these parts. it was brisk down by the water, as the sun had already fallen behind the ridge. but the kids ran around and picked up shells and sticks until their fingers were blue. and still, they begged to stay longer.

i am only now coming to more fully respect and appreciate the beauty of this magnificent place. the trees reach towards the heavens and the sun finds its way through their moss covered fingers to shine on my face. for a moment. and still, i am awestruck by the wonder that Heavenly Father created for me. the tide rolls out and leaves new treasures for the kids to hide in their pockets. the olympic mountains loom, snowcapped, in the distance. my eyes follow the cascades as they roll gracefully along. and then, amazingly, mt. rainier peaks out from behind a pack of feathery clouds. in the face of all this i am reminded of alma's words:

"all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it." these beautiful wonders were created, not by chance, but by a loving Father in Heaven. for us. because He loves us and wants us to feel joy.

"the earth rolls up on her wings, and the sun giveth his light by day, and the moon giveth her light by night, and the stars also give their light, as they roll upon their wings in their glory, in the midst of the power of God."

d&c 88:45.