With storm clouds looming in the distance, we knew the rain was on its way. Still, we chose to risk it. We chose to follow what our hearts desired- to tiptoe through the tulip fields at Timbuk Farms for their 4th Annual Tulip Festival.
For the past four years, this has been a tradition. And with each passing season, we’ve watched the festival bloom- much like our own family.
This visit, however, felt different. The clouds rolled in heavier, the air turned cool, and the world around us softened into a quiet stillness. As I gazed across the rolling hills of tulips, their colors deepened- rich and vibrant against the darkening sky.
“Come over here!” I called to my family, hurrying to capture a photo. I knew it would be beautiful- not because the lighting was perfect, but because of the contrast behind us. The storm. The tension. The reminder.
It felt a lot like life.
With the storm at our backs, we stood together- united, committed, strong. Each of us bringing something unique. Each of us holding one another up. Like the flowers surrounding us, we turned our faces toward the sun, choosing to find light even through the clouds. Growing, becoming, blooming more beautifully with time.
The ground beneath us- steady and sure- reminded me of the foundation we share. The roots below, unseen yet essential, binding us together in a quiet network of love. No matter the weather, we are anchored. And together, there is nothing we cannot face.
After soaking in the beauty around us, we wandered back to the garden center where food trucks, live music, and local vendors greeted us with warmth and energy. We chose Bite Club for lunch- salty fries and perfectly smashed burgers enjoyed at a wooden picnic table. Laughter became the soundtrack as silly stories were shared, easily my favorite ingredient of the day.
Next came something sweet- a red velvet cookie, rich and indulgent, devoured in happy bites. With full bellies, the kids raced toward the open play area, bouncing with joy on the giant jump pad. To close out our adventure, Ruby lit up with a face painting from Angela’s Fun Faces, her smile as bright as the blooms we had just left behind.
As we pulled out of the parking lot, the rain finally began to fall- almost as if it had waited for us. A gentle farewell to a day well spent.
This wasn’t our first storm. And it won’t be our last.
But rooted deep and reaching for the sun, we’ll weather them all together.
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