Thinking about the first vacation I’ve taken in a while, I considered what sort of entry I might post about departing from the engaged life. But now that I’ve been out and about for a week—on a family road-trip through the Northwest visiting family and friends—I’ve realized that the engaged life isn’t something you simply disengage from and leave behind when you go on vacation. Instead I’ve found myself and my family “engaging” nearly everywhere we go.

The best example: the City of Roses—Portland, Oregon—the biggest little city I ever called home, and a place to which my wife and I like to return. A lively city with a strong community conscience. Great activities and restaurants and so many cyclists on the roads downtown that they give the cars a run for their money. Visiting friends who lead engaged lives—who enjoy being vibrant contributors to their large but close community—requires that you engage when you’re in their presence. Thanks, Everyone! Definitely the best way to travel.

–Chris