Finding Space

Potomac River Great Falls Virginia | 2009

I mentioned in my last TGIF post that I had a few moments of “true space and presentness” this past week and figured that it would probably be a good thing to jot them down so I can remember them.

The first moment of space (or grace) came on Tuesday while I was doing the dishes after dinner. We spent a thoroughly enjoyable day at our local homeschool park day (which we had missed the prior two weeks due to our trip to the Outer Banks at the end of May and our annual homeschool evaluation the following week).

Jason had been sorely missing his weekly D&D fix and was looking forward to catching up with everyone. Kyle was looking forward to hanging out with his best buddies (park day is one of highlights of his week as he gets to run around outside all day (there are bike paths and a stream and plenty of open space)). I was looking forward to it as much as the boys, since it is a great time for me to hang out and talk with my friends as well.

The weather was absolutely gorgeous…after a week of unseasonably hot and humid weather (temperatures in the 90s with a heat index in the 100s), we were greated with upper 70s/lower 80s. The boys had a blast and I really connected with a couple of friends during conversations about health and relationship issues which was exactly what I needed. We lingered until after 5pm and hit the library to pick up the next in the installment of The Ranger’s Apprentice for Jason before heading home. Grilled up some cheeseburgers and hot dogs. Then while doing the dishes, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and contentment.

The moment of space came, I believe, from thoroughly enjoying a nice day…not an overly special day. Just nice. Relaxed. Everyone doing something that we enjoyed. No rushing. Nothing that had to get done. And nothing that I absolutely needed to do the rest of the evening. I was able to truly let go and be in the moment.

And the best thing about that moment? The fact that I noticed it.