List #150: A Vacation in Photos

And that wraps up the best vacation I have ever given myself. 

Moments: Yia Mas!

Once upon a time I lived in Greece. It was years ago. Before YouTube was invented, before wireless Internet was the standard, before everyone we knew had a smartphone and connected their life to Facebook. I worked at night, teaching classes to eager and not-so eager students. I tried my best at the New York Times crossword in my town's square, drank Nescafe and ate Happy Hippos. I went to the beach on the weekend and drank hot chocolate next to the sea when the weather was cold.

And when dinner was to be had, or you wanted a cheap buzz, the man with the golden key was always to be found. Retsina. Wine that tastes like pine. An acquired taste I don't even register anymore even years after my last glass.

Who knew that when I left my little Greek town that people laugh at when I reference it would be years before a reunion. I never thought that the decisions I was making at the time might set me adrift for awhile, might make me feel lost. And yes, who knows if I'd be me if I'd have stayed or said no the job offer I had upon my return. But what I do know is that a good meal, with a good friend, over a bottle or two with Malamatina is worth the trip to Astoria.

List # 105: Wild and Wonderful

Taken at Stone Wall Resort, WV thanks to wonderful librarian friends who planned a getaway weekend in honor of birthdays and friendship. 

One of the librarians snapped this photo of me on Saturday as we walked around the second largest lake in West Virginia.  I swear that it's rare for me to be captured by the shutter solo so often, but in the past few weeks it seems to have happened more than normal. Instead of showing off my librarian fashion-sense, I think this one speaks to my inner core. 

Here is what I see:

• A woman who has been treated to a grand gesture of love by her friends. A trip in honor of her birthday, amazing friends who don't judge and support, people who care so much about the needs and feelings of others we all brought too much food and wine.
• Someone who has accepted that life isn't fair. Actually, she may struggle with this from time to time. But she has learned to find a center of gravity that is harder to shake. 
• A girl who appreciates the pretty. I'm not apologizing for liking a pretty dress and high-heeled shoes anymore than I am apologizing for liking sunshine on a still lake.
• A crooked smile with gaps in my teeth. Bothering me more than it ever has in my life, I don't think I could change its character even if I desperately want to. 
• A girl not shy about laughing. Big belly laughs and girly giggles. Bring on the wrinkles.

Do I dare ask, dear readers, what you see in this photograph? I'd love your take on my weekend-affair with nature.

note #5: west coast time

Wondering where I have been? This librarian is on vacation.

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