"A true friend encourages us, comforts us, supports us like a big easy chair, offering us a safe refuge from the world."
~ H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Although my dad no longer has a permanent home (he's renting his place) in Okoboji, I still consider it my refuge. Tomorrow I'm taking a personal day to go "home" and hang with some special people. The lakes area is my refuge. Primarily, it's because of the relationships I've formed with people who still live there. One of my best friends, whose known me since high school or before, is that refuge. Of course, we are in constant communication via all forms of technology, but there's a special connection when we are able to sit for hours and talk in person. It's more, however, than the people. Something about the lakes (frozen or white capped or calm) and the plains make me feel comfortable and relaxed (at home, my refuge). I will cherish my short trip to this refuge and look forward to returning soon.
I'm grateful for...
1) Okoboji - my refuge
2) Falafel King within walking distance from my house and warmer weather to walk for food
3) birds - their miraculous skill to build their own refuge

Comments
Love this photo.