In August, Shelley and I finally made it to Stonehenge, which was a bucket list thing for us and wow… it’s hard to put into words what it felt like to stand there. We’ve seen it in books and on TV, but being there in person was something completely different.
The stones are massive much bigger than we imagined. We walked around them trying to imagine how did people thousands of years ago move and arrange these giant stones.
What struck us the most was the atmosphere. Even with lots of people visiting the site, there was this quiet hush, like everyone was quietly sharing in the same amazement.
It was an amazing experience to walk around Stonehenge and see those huge stones laid out in a specific way. For us it was a reminder of how small we are in the grand sweep of history, and how precious time is.
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” — Gustave Flaubert
This summer, we had the absolute joy of traveling to Canada to visit family and friends. It turned out to be one of the most heartwarming and refreshing trips we’ve had in a long time.
A Beautiful Cottage on the Ottawa River
We stayed at a charming cottage nestled along the Ottawa River. It was nothing short of perfect. The screened-in porch quickly became our favourite spot.
It was the ideal place for morning coffee, afternoon chats, and peaceful evenings listening to the gentle sounds of the river. Nature was all around and the calm of the water added a special kind of magic to our stay.
One of the memorable parts of our trip was kayaking along the river and exploring the nearby bay area. Gliding across the smooth water, we discovered hidden coves, peaceful inlets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Jonathan and Ray getting ready to go out Canoeing
It was a perfect way to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the river up close.
The main reason for our trip was to celebrate Tyreese’s graduation. Seeing him walk across that stage filled us with pride and gratitude.
Tyreese accepting his diplomaKeenan, Ray, Tyreese, Jen, Chataya and Shelley on Graduation Day
It’s hard to believe how fast the years have flown by. From the little boy with the big smile to the young man stepping into his future.
Tyreese and Ray
We couldn’t be more proud of him.
But above all, the most meaningful and memorable part of this trip was simply spending time with family and friends.
Ray and JonathanShelley and Bev
We feel so incredibly blessed to have shared these days together — laughing, reminiscing, catching up, and just enjoying each other’s company. We shared delicious meals, told stories, and laughed a lot, especially when doing magic tricks for the little ones. Watching their faces light up in amazement (and confusion!) as they searched high and low for the “missing coin” was a joy all its own. The giggles, gasps, and wide eyes were absolutely priceless.
Whether we were enjoying a sunset by the river, swapping jokes on the porch, exploring the bay in a kayak, or celebrating a proud milestone, the trip was full of moments that filled our hearts.
It was a beautiful reminder that no matter where life takes us, home is always where the people you love are.
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things”
This past weekend, we escaped to the sun-soaked coastal town of Moraira, Spain. It is a true gem on the Costa Blanca.
Tucked between mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean, this charming town welcomed us with its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and postcard-perfect views.
Fernando, Leti, Shelley and Ray
We went with our friends Leti and Fernando, which made the whole experience even more special. Traveling with good friends always adds that extra layer of laughter, shared moments, and unforgettable memories.
We stayed at a resort-style complex that was perched just above the town, complete with an infinity pool that provided the ultimate view. Mornings were spent sipping coffee with panoramic views stretching from the hills to the horizon, and in the evenings ended at the poolside, enjoying drinks, laughs and watching the sky melt into brilliant shades of pink, blues and gold.
Sunset from our resort style apartment
One of the highlights of the trip was a day at the Cala Granadella, just a short drive from Moraira. We started early in order to beat the crowds, knowing how popular this spot is, especially on a sunny weekend. Even so, we ended up driving partway up the mountain road to find a parking spot, then walking down the winding road to the cove.
Ray, Fernando, Leti and Shelley walking down to the beach
But the effort was more than worth it.
Cars parked along the roadside and heading to the beachView from our parking spot
Granadella greeted us with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic rocky cliffs, and that tranquil Mediterranean charm.
View from our spot on the beach of Granadella
We found a nice stop on the beach, swam and let time drift by.
Ray in the water at Granadella Beach
Fernando and Ray found a bar and we enjoyed some refreshments while longing on the beach with the sound of the waves in the background. We relaxed and just took it all in. A great day!
Back in Moraira, we explored the Feria, a lively street fair full of color, music, and the irresistible scent of Spanish street food. We wandered through stalls of handmade crafts and local goods, tried some samples including horse meat, cheeses and a very large donut.
On one of the afternoons, we took a scenic drive out to Cap de la Nau, one of the easternmost points on Spain’s mainland. The winding road led us through hills and coastal landscapes until we reached the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Standing at the edge, the cliffside view was absolutely breathtaking—jagged rocks plunging into deep blue water, with nothing but sea and sky stretching endlessly ahead.
view from the top of Nau CapeView from Nau Cape
We took our time walking along the path, snapping photos and just soaking in the peacefulness of the place. It felt like we were standing on the edge of the world.
Shelley enjoying one of the beautiful views in the area of Moraira, Spain
It was great weekend crammed full of activities, laughter and fun. We returned home tired but feeling relaxed and grateful for the sunshine, the laughter, the peaceful views, and above all, the time shared with friends. Moraira is one of those towns that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and savor every little moment and that’s exactly what we did.
We spent a few days exploring the City of Seville, time seemed to melt into golden light, orange blossom scent, and echoes of flamenco guitar drifting from hidden courtyards. We began our stay wandering through the maze-like alleys of the **Santa Cruz** neighborhood. It’s hard not to fall in love with the whitewashed buildings, wrought-iron balconies overflowing with geraniums, and the surprise of a quiet plaza tucked around every corner.
Seville Cathedral
No visit to Seville is complete without a stop at its crown jewel — the **Seville Cathedral** and the **Giralda tower**. Standing in front of the cathedral’s imposing Gothic façade, we were reminded how much history hums through this city.
Shelley and Ray in Plaza de EspañaPlaza de España in Seville
But perhaps the most magical moment came unexpectedly — when we decided to take a **horse-drawn carriage ride** through the city. The clip-clop of hooves echoed through the cobblestone streets as we passed through **María Luisa Park** and under the grand arches of **Plaza de España**. It felt like a scene from another era — slower, dreamier, and completely unforgettable.
In the evenings, we enjoyed **Spanish wines and beers** alongside delicious **tapas**, hopping from one little bar to the next and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Each place offered its own charm, its own specialties, and its own corner of Seville’s vibrant personality.
Travel has a way of awakening us — shaking off the routine and opening our eyes to wonder. Our time in Seville reminded us how fulfilling it is to step into the unknown, to experience beauty in a new culture, and to collect small moments that become lasting memories.
Whether it’s the taste of a local dish, the sound of horses on stone, or the simple joy of getting lost in a beautiful city, these are the things that make life feel rich.
Tonight was one of those evenings that sneaks up on you and ends up being something really special. We went to a flamenco show in the Setas area of Seville—such a cool part of the city, with those giant mushroom-like structures overhead and a little buzz of life all around.
Ray, Gerry, Michelle and Shelley under the Setas of Seville
The venue was small and cozy, almost like stepping into someone’s private living room, but with a stage and just the right amount of drama in the lighting.
Gerry, Michelle and Shelley near the stage
We sat near the front, close enough to see every expression, every snap of the fingers, every stomp of a heel. With a glass of wine in hand, it already felt like a perfect way to spend the evening.
The show started simply: just one man with a guitar, sitting alone under a spotlight. The room went still as he played—something about the way his fingers moved made it feel like the music was pulling stories out of the air. Then came the others, gradually—first a singer, with a voice so full of emotion it gave me goosebumps. And then the dancers. Wow.
There’s something electric about flamenco up close. The passion, the sharpness of the movements, the connection between the performers—it was like watching a conversation in a language I didn’t speak but somehow understood.
Each piece built on the last, rising in energy and intensity. You could feel the room responding to it, getting pulled in deeper and deeper.
The whole thing lasted about an hour and a half, but it honestly felt like maybe thirty minutes. Time just disappeared. When it ended, I didn’t want it to be over.
I can’t imagine a better way to experience flamenco than in a place like that—in Seville, near the Setas, glass of wine in hand, surrounded by music and movement and feeling. After the show as we stepped out into the beautiful Seville night, I kept thinking of something I’d once heard: “El duende se siente, no se explica.” which means Duende is felt, not explained. And that’s exactly what tonight was, it wasn’t just a show. It was something deeper. Something that’ll will stick with me for a long time.
The main reason for our trip was to celebrate Tyreese’s graduation. Seeing him walk across that stage filled us with pride and gratitude.
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