Our Magical Triple Trip: When Time Seems to Bend
Every now and then, you take a trip that feels much longer than the days you were actually away. Our recent “triple trip” was definitely one of those! Three very different destinations, a lovely mix of rest, family, adventure and inspiration, and somehow it all seemed to fit into one wonderfully full experience.
We returned home with our hearts filled, our batteries recharged, and perhaps most importantly, feeling a little more excited and prepared for the next chapter ahead.
First stop: Back to the Cabin
Returning to the cabin is always a restorative joy. There is something about being there that makes it easier to find that lovely balance between doing and simply being.
Of course, there are always a few chores to attend to, but they seem to sit quite happily alongside long walks, checking out the local salmon, and the occasional decision to do absolutely nothing.
And doing nothing at the cabin seems so much easier than doing nothing anywhere else! Perhaps it's the quiet, the surroundings, or simply the permission to slow down. Whatever it is, we soaked it up. We even made new friends with a bold couple who have opened a Volkswagen shop “off the wagen” (Vintage Volkswagen parts, merchandise, and a gathering spot for air-cooled/classic VW enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest) in our local little Hoodsport WA town. https://www.instagram.com/offthewagenwa/
Next stop: Precious family time in Seattle
Then it was on to Seattle for some much-loved family time. More walks, plenty of playing, lots of fun and those precious everyday moments that make being together so special.
There was also a little DIY adventure on the agenda, installing kitchen cabinets into Liliana's workshop. Nothing like combining family time with a practical project! We loved being part of it, lending a hand and enjoying the fun of making something together.
These are the moments we treasure most: being present, sharing experiences, and making memories with the people we love.
Final stop: California dreaming!
Our last stop was a swift but fascinating trip to California.
First, we toured the Pebble RV factory, getting a closer look at the clever thinking and craftsmanship behind these little homes on wheels. Then we spent a full day with S2A Modular in Patterson, exploring their rather extraordinary mega factory and their vision for the future of building homes.
It was fascinating to see the innovation, possibilities and different ways of thinking about how we might live in the years ahead. Let's just say our imaginations were happily engaged!
And then, the perfect finale: a night in a Pebble RV at Costanoa Resort, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged mountains of San Mateo, under a beautiful full moon.
A lovely setting, a little adventure, and a chance to experience the RV lifestyle for ourselves. We couldn't have asked for a better ending to our California visit.
Coming home, looking forward
So, three destinations, countless little adventures, precious family time, new ideas and a generous dose of rest. We really did feel as though time had bent to make room for it all.
We came home relaxed, inspired and with our hearts full.
And something else became clearer along the way. As we prepare to sell Soma Ranch, it is wonderful to have experiences like these that remind us there is so much to look forward to beyond the ranch.
After 17 years of loving, nurturing and sharing Soma, we know that letting go is a big step. But having a glimpse of the possibilities ahead makes that step feel lighter. New places to explore, more time with family, adventures on the road, and the freedom to discover what this next season of life might bring.
Sometimes the best way to prepare for a new beginning is to go out and experience a little of what might be waiting for you.
We are home, feeling grateful for the life we've lived at Soma, excited about the adventures we've already had, and curious about all that is still to come.
Here's to making room for the next chapter, and enjoying the journey along the way!
With love,
Helen & Joe
💚 🌳 Soma Ranch 🫏 💚