Recently, I placed a favorite website, I began 6 years ago, on hold: tomspoetry.com. I wasn’t able to devote the time I should due to life changes (all positive) and I simply became more about my other writing. So in that vein, I will begin some of the same conversations here that used to be devoted to tomspoetry.com. In this first entry, I found myself on a recent fishing trip with my youngest son, Joshua. We had the usual amazing time, and while missing the other kids, we were able to set up a tent in gale-force winds, fish our way around bugs, portage a canoe to 6 lakes in one day, and actually catch a lot of fish. But for me, and best of all, I found a depth of mind I haven’t felt in a while. Being “busy” is always a challenge in my life of rhythms and spontaneous directions, and I have been “busy.” This trip found me settled into a cozy haze of Lake Superior and time away from the chase I have been able to steer clear of. I also love being with any of my children for any length of time. It’s always a breath of fresh air to experience their thoughts, feelings, and younger approach to life; however, I’ve been very preoccupied with the new novel getting launched and several articles I have hanging out there, so the environmental elements allowed me to be mindful of what was happening each and every moment on the trip. As I surrendered to the Universe and the eternal power it generates, I laid on the beach completely relaxed and at peace. Little did I know Joshua had snapped a picture of that moment. It wasn’t until two days later he showed me the shot. I was amazed at how I had perceived the moment and how well it was captured. No posing. No artificial affect. What I saw in the picture was exactly as I felt: One with the world around me. To my surprise, even my clothing (my age-old camping, backpacking, fishing clothes) matched the sand and surroundings. Nearing the 4th of July and all that connects to this busy time in Petoskey, these precious days away from that energy are just that, precious. Take care during the holiday and find some time to quench your soul. Remember, disconnect and enjoy the moment at hand.