dreamin'

The necessity of imagination: it is one of those understandings that makes me feel that the older I get, the younger I become. If circumstances overwhelm or underwhelm a quick escape in the mind is so refreshing. The purpose of such an escape needn't be to avoid the past, present or future, but to freeze time for an instant and remind us that things have not always been and will not always be "this way". The pragmatist in me shies aways from daydreaming so I am thankful for Eleanor whose sweetness and silliness affirm the enjoyment and engagement of my imagination. It is a useful tool, too, for helping us get through harder seasons. I have found myself pausing a time or two throughout the day, allowing my eyes to unfocus and my senses to drift back to a cherished memory or ahead to trip that I long to take. And then, when reality breaks my momentary revere, I am so grateful that I can share tales of what was with my children and make plans to take them with us on new adventures that they might dream back to when they are my age. 

That time when we looked out over the Cliffs and I danced in a pub (Image: National Geographic)

Friends just came back and I want to go now. (Image: Robert and Kathleen Photographers)

Or back to California to properly take in the Redwoods (Image: Gail Werner)

Back in time to see some old favorites (Image: VivienMaier.com)

 

I remember how magical it was when I first saw moss hanging from trees in Georgia (Image: Sally Mann)

I've never been but I want to go to Hawaii. And I want to surf. But who doesn't right now? (Image: Katelyn James Photography)