On The Mend

Slowly but surely we’re getting there.  After a long week of wiping noses, sucking down medicine, and laying low, everyone seems to be getting better.  Chad and Charlie are as good as new.  Chanelle is close behind with just a slight runny nose and Meadow and I are bringing up the rear with lingering congestion.  We are more than ready for some stable temperatures and a germ free home. 

I’ve missed this space.  It’s crazy how much the blog keeps me connected to the important things.  How much it calls me to recognize the beauty of our days and the preciousness of our moments.  In the chaos of keeping up with two very active children and taking care of a baby who loves to be close most every moment of the day, I am prone to miss the little moments.  Often, I settle for survival, when really, my hearts desire is to go further and fully live in the treasured moments we have.  Tonight, I was reminded of this.

I found a new favorite place in our town.  It’s a really cool place.  Some might call it a walking path, others may refer to it as a park.  I, however, describe it as a little slice of Heaven hiding in plain sight.  Rolling hills, natural growth, a spectacular view of the sunset, and quiet seclusion right smack in the middle of our town. 

Since we were all feeling much better, the five of us ventured out this evening to check it out.  I took such pleasure in watching Charlie and Chanelle run, jump, climb, and bask in the beauty of the evening.  Watching their play and their enthusiasm was just the knock in the head that I needed to remember that now is the most important time.  Now is what matters.

Am I too old to be giddy about a park? Right or wrong. . . I am.  My heart heart rate increased, my eyes closed against the brightness of the sun, and I breathed in deep the smell of flowers, grass, tress, and the sound happy little ones.

Up and down the hills they ran as their laughter echoed through the air. I can’t imagine a more perfect way to spend an evening.

My favorite of her smiles. . .the crinkle nose smile

Until, that is, about a quarter of a mile into it when two exhausted little ones thought this path was not their idea of fun.

This would be her, “I’m really not happy with you” look.

Chad and I became the cheerleaders as they peddled their little legs up and down the hills while Chanelle chanted I don’t want to go this way. 

Perhaps we should have taken the shorter route, but they survived it and we all have another experience to tuck in our back pockets.  Honestly, the weekend could not have ended any more perfectly. . . even if Meadow missed the entire thing. . .

It felt like this slice of Heaven belonged to us. . . and you know what?

. . . it did. 

Happy Monday!!