An Oasis

Here we are.

Two pilgrims delighting in an oasis of beauty and in the comfort of comradeship. 

It seems a bit surreal that we were even able to do this as life has not afforded us this opportunity for oh so very many years, but we're just happy it happened.

There was an amazing, accessible pathway over a bridge and onto a little island crowded with beautiful trees, birds and vegetation which Patrice was bravely sampling, much to my chagrin.

I can't remember what she ate, but she lived and when we had supper later in the day it was actually a featured item on the menu.

She knows her stuff, this birdwatching, nature loving girl of mine!

Her time at A Rocha has broadened her horizons and I am enjoying the second hand experience. 

We played pooh-sticks upon entering the island and on our departure.

These girls are just so easy to have fun with.

We often commented on how relaxed the whole experience was.

And birdwatching...it's our new sport and even I can participate!

A whole world of wonder opens up when you look up and listen...

Such a pretty place.

The smells were fresh and intoxicating, reminiscent of camp experiences from a lifetime ago.

The river was running at pretty full capacity as there has been so much rain in all of these areas but thankfully we hit the sunshine!

Simply providential.

Idyllic, peaceful, recharging, mesmerizing, exceptional beauty.

The clouds and everything else declaring the glory of our magnificent Creator who has given us richly, all things to enjoy.

And enjoy them we did!

We headed to town for some shopping and sightseeing and scoped out where we'd be having dinner in the evening.

'

Every corner rounded afforded us delightful sights

and thankfully we were visiting midweek so there were no crowds.

In the afternoon I lay down to rest my back and recharge while the others went for a round of free golf across the street from our hotel. 

They were pretty much professionals by the end of their game.

Apparently there was a goat mowing the lawn while they putted along.

But that evidence is on someone else's camera.

Patrice chose the Watershed for our evening dining experience and it was simply superb.

Farm to table dining, served with a flair and the flavour was over the moon amazing.

We were seated outside on a covered deck, overlooking the river and protected from a refreshing rainfall that graced our fine dining.

We could't get over the rich flavours of the pesto and almond encrusted salmon, gnocchi, morel mushrooms and sauce...

A double rainbow filled the sky on our walk back to the hotel.

Very fitting somehow.

We enjoyed yet another evening playing games and sipping on hot tea while we listened to more beautiful music floating up from the grand piano below.

Lots of laughter and sweet times.

Another delight filled day was finished and we retired to our puffy beds with our hearts and bellies full.