Egídio asks us to present photos that “reveal an emotional state of melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent someone or something.” First, I love this Portuguese word; saudade. Often, I’m taken by a memory that is melancholic or nostalgic, though somehow neither word, alone, captures the essence of the impression. These are elusive whiffs of thought that cause an instant ache when I summon the feelings of the moment, and at the same time, I understand it cannot be re-created.
For thirty years (1983-2013), Creighton and I had our summer vacation at Beach Haven Resort, on Orcas Island. It was a perfect place for me to begin to decompress after another year counseling at a large suburban high school.
We took our 10 speed (alpine gearing) bicycles with us, and every day explored different parts of Orcas, and then ventured further, taking the Ferry to other Islands. Eventually we challenged ourselves to a yearly bicycle pedal from our cabin at sea level, to the top of Mt. Constitution. These photos were taken by Creighton (around 1987) on the road from Moran State Park to the summit, a rise of 1800 ft (548 meters) in 4.8 miles (7.7 K).
Those were the days! There is no way we could make that ride now. Age and balance have taken their toll. Still, I loved visiting the islands and would enjoy returning sometime.
Throughout the summer months Creighton and I stay at our home in Vancouver, WA to avoid the tourist season, and to allow our Long Beach, WA condominium to be available for guests. By mid-August, I start to feel the sense of longing to get back out to the fresh ocean scents, the absence of freeway noise and no air traffic thundering above me.
And, here we are. Which is why I’m so late getting this post completed! Last night’s sunset was another stunner, and the roar I hear in the distance is of the ocean, not of traffic. I feel so fortunate!
Lindy Low LeCoq 
Lindy, Delightful, as always. The last photo and text were unexpected, along with well said. I agree.
Thank you! It’s nice to get comments, and I’m glad you liked my finishing statement.
If only we could return to a truly honest constitutional government, especially the First Amendment (while the Second is worshipped). I grieve for our nation.
Hope will keep us alive, as we navigate another attempt to co-opt our nation. Check out Robert Reich.🐾🐾💕
Lindy, this is terrific response to the challenge. I loved the photos, and, especially, the moments you shared. Those bike rides must have been great. There was quite a lot of elevation gain. One phrase in your text resonated with me deeply: “elusive whiffs of thought that cause an instant ache.” That is true saudade. Thanks for the post, photos, and the closing thoughts. Well said!
Thank you, dear Egidio. So glad my interpretation hit the mark for you. Those Mt. Constitution treks deserve a short story about the experience, from the first to the last ride! For now, I’ll see about getting back there, and continue to resist in the ways I can. Oct 18
A beautiful post Lindy, those bike rides sound amazing 💚 Many of us outside the US share your final longing too 💖🙏 xxx
Thank you Xenia. It’s so reassuring to know that others understand that the majority of this nation are alarmed and resisting. Your blessings help!
Love your sunset picture Lindy and agree that we need a President that abides by the U.S. Constitution.
Thank you, Anne. Sometimes I feel a need to show how I feel, and it’s reassuring to receive kind affirmations!
Thank you, Anne. It’s reassuring to find that others agree.
There’s a whole lot of us who agree Lindy. 😢
Beautifully expressed! I love the last photo and words especially. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Amy!