Category : Stories

Sub Category : Adventure

There is nothing more relaxing and peaceful than a warm, sunny day spent on the river with friends and loved ones. Swimming, kayaking, or just floating along the current. This is just one of the many sweet treats of the season.

Today my little friends and I decided to make the most out of what summer has left behind and hit the river one last time. Today I didn't swim or even dip a toe into the water. I set on the riverbank and observed, I listened, I read, and I prayed.  

These past months have been hard for my family. They've been long and stressful and uncertain more than I would have preferred. But during this time we've laughed, we planned, we've helped, and we have healed too. 

There is nothing more valuable and priceless to me than my children. My kids have seen me fail and mess up much more than I cared for. They've seen me cry and scream, cuss and curse. But they've also seen me try. 

I listened carefully to the conversations between my friends. The dialog was pretty typical for the 13 and under age group with the teasing and bickering.  But there was something so powerful and optimistic in the dynamics of the conversations. 

The power of optimal enthusiasm. They were happy to be exactly where they were. And so was I. 

I've learned a lot these past months and when its been tough and trying and impossible to be optimistic I would find myself just walking away and outside among my new, little friends. 

I would sit along side them and talk to them but mostly I listened. What I hear and what resonates with me the most, now and then, is their attitude of optimal enthusiasm and encouragement. 

I've found a few treasures hanging out with this gang. I have found that happiness isn't always simple but it can indeed be found in the simplest things. I've found that enthusiasm is energizing and opportunities are endless with faith, friends, and family. 

Fabulous finds indeed!