The summer has been flying along. For some reason, I thought it would go slowly and that there would be many an afternoon spent lazing around the house, the yard and the beach. Who am I kidding? None of my children ever really laze around no matter how hard I try to teach them. Even though we are as busy as ever, I really am trying to take the time to notice the really small but beautiful moments before they fade away. I am trying to notice and be grateful for these moments amongst all of the hustle that seems to happen so naturally around here. In that spirit, here are some things I am especially grateful for this summer.
I cannot get enough of hydrangeas. I have a lot of 'favorite' flowers, but these hold such mystery and pleasure for me. I have loved hydrangeas ever since I was five years old.
Storm clouds backlit by the sun are also full of mystery and beauty to me. I think I have always loved these too. Being able to experience the drama and color of such clouds is one of the best things about being alive on this Earth.
But more than this summer's luxurious flowers and dramatic clouds, I am grateful for this:
I am catching this smile often lately. Even though there are many moments of stress and worry, Doran is growing and expressing himself in incredible ways. He is 'with' us a lot more now and we are 'with' him more too. It's simply wonderful.
What are you feeling especially grateful for lately?