I have lived in Southern California my whole life. I have always enjoyed it here, but lately, I have loved it. We recently had some rain, which has put snow on the mountains surrounding my home. There are a few streets and freeway overpasses where I can see the ocean. There was a moment while running errands the other day when I saw the sea on one side and snow-capped mountains on the other. I teared up a bit at the beauty of my home state and the gratefulness that this is my home. This is where I belong.

Andy and I recently took a short weekend trip to our favorite beach town, Laguna. I took my Rolleicord V out for an evening. I was enthralled by the palm trees. Before I knew it, I had used up the whole roll. I couldn’t resist. They say home to me.

I leave you with many palm trees and John O’Donohue’s poem, For Belonging. May you find your sense of home and belonging this year.

May you listen to your longing to be free.
May the frames of your belonging be generous enough for your dreams.
May you arise each day with a voice of blessing whispering in your heart.
May you find a harmony between your soul and your life.
May the sanctuary of your soul never become haunted.
May you know the eternal longing that lives at the heart of time.
May there be kindness in your gaze when you look within.
May you never place walls between the light and yourself.
May you allow the wild beauty of the invisible world to gather you, mind you, and embrace you in belonging.

~Staci Lee