Sleep. (After a week of insomnia, most especially sleep.)

That life is green again.

Spring.

Warm sun on my back as I sit on the green grass and watch fields full of boys and girls run and kick and laugh and, sometimes, cry.

Family.

Lovely lilacs. Lilac blooms are heaven-scent.

Friends.

Watching my kids grow into who they are supposed to be.

Being a witness to acts of generosity and kindness.


Another day.

Watching my daughter devour a novel just like I did as a kid. And still do. Seeing her face light up with animation and excitement as she tells me about what is happening to the characters as if they are her friends. Which they are. The protagonists of a well-written book are always your friends.

Being able to take time out of a busy day to render some small service to a friend. It helps ground me and reminds me of what is really relevant and important.

Sitting in the Provo Tabernacle a couple of nights ago (the acoustics in that building are marvelous!) and listening to my son play with the Utah Youth Symphony. A couple of months ago I sat in the same place and listened to my other son sing with the PHS Chamber Choir and Concert Choir. I feel blessed my kids have opportunities I never had. Even more so that they are wise enough to avail themselves of such opportunities. I am especially thankful that my boys have discovered a love of good music and are developing their talents. They are setting a good precedent for my younger kids whom I hope will follow in their footsteps. I was amused to watch my seven-year-old--who didn't want to come--perk up his head now and then and listen with interest. Seeds are being planted. The harvest will enrich his life.