Book excerpt: The Shangri-La Shack Literary Arts Journal is a bi-annual print and online journal that provides a stage for writers and artists whose work exemplifies Shangri-La Shack's mission to express and evoke appreciation and gratitude for the gifts of the world we live in. This collection of creative writing and visual art reflects on the quirks, gifts, and challenges of our natural world and society. Themes in this edition include nature, wildlife, relationships, personal development, memories, aging, spirituality, and more. Take in and enjoy poetry, short stories, drawings, paintings, photography and other mediums of expression from artists around the world. Come hang out in the shack and express, celebrate, reflect, and indulge in the spectacular details of our world.