Savoring the moments

Let us tenderly and kindly cherish, therefore, the means of knowledge. Let us dare to read, think, speak, and write. ~ John Adams

We just returned from a wonderful summer vacation.  It was a mixture of family, friends and fun.  It was the all American road trip and we are still basking in the wonderful adventure.  We spent a week in Minnesota and then we took another week with our little family to download together.

While I was in Minnesota, I visited by father's grave.  The last time I was at his graveside was the day we laid him to rest.  That was a frigid, December afternoon.  This time around it was delightfully warm and sunny.  I went with my mom and we put flowers on his grave and I took some time to talk to him.  It was a very special day with my mom...and my dad.

It got me thinking about all the moments or events in our lives that happen every day.  Do we take enough time to really appreciate the abundance that surrounds us?  I spent a lot of time in Minnesota with my mom.  We visited my dad's grave, went swimming, walking, dining and just talking.  I know she liked our time together and so did I.

I also thought about my dad when we were all together as a family.  I wondered, "What would dad be doing now if he were here?"  I smiled for I knew right away he would be watching all his grand kids with a mug of coffee in one hand and an M&M cookie in his other hand. He would be filled with love and joy.  He always enjoyed the moments.  He honored the times we were together as a family.  I knew he would be smiling with us that day as well.

My brother and I on our 37 mile Twin Cities bike ride.
I'm holding one of the best cities in my hands - Minneapolis

We did what you were supposed to do on a vacation - we unplugged.  We left our worries back in Florida to enjoy time with people.  I even let go of working out - wow!  I decided that my mind, body and spirit could use a little rest and relaxation.  I did still manage to fit in a 37 mile bike ride with my brother and sister and walks around the lakes and on the North Carolina beaches but they were not my typical routines.  I ate what I liked, in moderation of course and slept in late - ah!


We enjoyed time with our extended families but we also took time with our little family, just the four of us.  We spent time frolicking on the beach and at Aquatica.  We discovered new cities across the country that we had never explored before.  We connected with each other and had no set schedule.  It was refreshing.  It was necessary.  We created moments that will always be remembered and cherished.

 







As I continue to live off of the vacation high, I reflect upon a poem that I first came across while I was in college (many years ago!).  It is deeply moving and reminds me everyday that my dad is still within and around me always.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.

RIP sweet dad.  I love you always.

I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
                                              ~ Mary Elizabeth Frye


So take some time this summer to savor the moments, the here and now.  Enjoy the warmth of the sun, dance in the rain (Florida summers include A LOT of rain), strike a yoga pose on the beach and embrace your friends and family a little longer.

The light in me honors the light in you,

Namaste