From the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters

I just returned from the most splendid of vacations over my Spring Break. I went with some friends to stay in a cabin by the Russian River. Blessed with sunshine, we did a day of hiking in Armstrong State Park. The random tendon/ muscles in our legs screamed and our feet whined in protest, but we trudged on through mud and rocks to see beautiful views, mossy trees, and numerous javelina traps. Ok, maybe not javelinas, but forest pigs. Like in Princess Mononoke! Ok, maybe not gigantic god-pigs either.

We also ate extremely well, cooking fantastic dinners each evening and glorious breakfasts. Culinary Therapy. Strangely, the trip turned into a social work retreat in a way, with all of group processing, checking in, and assessing each other throughout, half in jest and half in seriousness. Yet, the formality of structured discussions did create a space for us to talk about how we got along with each other and process our various experiences in social work school so far. Highly beneficial. Highly strengths-based.

Afterwards we also visited an aunt of one of my friends and saw her children and horses. We watched a movie with her family and played air hockey, pingpong, and cards. So welcoming and warm.

If anyone should need an intervention for relaxation and pleasantry, I will refer you to the Russian River.