I was out taking Dakota for a walk Saturday morning, and we were going through Jackson Park, when I saw several Monarchs fly by. I watched where they landed because I wanted to take some pictures. Then I saw them–clusters of Monarchs sitting there, some occasionally opening their wings. They were there when we walked back home again, so I got Sarah and the grandkids in the car to go check them out. We have Connor and Tessa–Caleb is recovering from having his palate surgery, and doing very well, but giving him more time to spend with his mom, our daughter, Molly. The Monarchs were still there when we went back!
The grandkids were giggling, and watching, and Connor wanted to take some pictures. Then when one would take off, we tried following it, some still in the trees, some towards the lake.
A lot of stress going on this week–Caleb’s surgery; my mom’s health is declining quickly. But while all this was happening, there were also butterflies.
And sunsets…
And grandkids.
Beauty does not wait until life becomes uncomplicated. Maybe that’s one of the things grandchildren are teaching me. They don’t need everything to be perfect before they enjoy the day. They see a playground and want to play. They see a butterfly and want to watch it. They see a sunset and–well, Grandpa probably makes them stop while he takes another picture!
The week reminded me that life can contain worry and joy at exactly the same time. Life didn’t wait for everything to settle down before giving me something beautiful to notice. And of course, the grandkids continue to crack me up laughing!
Tessa just turned 3. Saturday morning she came in our bedroom, and I was still laying in bed. Sarah went for a run already so one of us would be home. She tried climbing into bed, and was holding toys in both hands. She finally through the toys up on the bed, and then started climbing up bed board at the foot portion of the bed. Grunting away, finally flopping on top of the bed, and letting out a big exhale like she just climbed Mount Everest. She comes up by my head, and I am keeping my eyes closed.
“Papa!” Nothing.
“Papa!” Nothing.
3rd time–“Papa!” I finally said “what”. What does she do? She comes right in front of my nose and says “boo!”. I almost died laughing! This is why you do things to stay healthy. This is why you keep moving…to spend more time with them and enjoy life! Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day of Newest Streak: # 921