Live in the Sunshine

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Almost as if on cue, the sun came out. The breeze carried a warmth that hadn’t been felt in ages, and we all flocked outside as if we had to catch it before it slipped away, because in New England, we know, that’s how fast the weather can/and will change. Oh, how I love to live in the sunshine! 

After the long winter, the yard is a mess, so I started a little fire in my fire pit and began picking up sticks, thinking maybe my grandsons might like to help...but they weren’t buying that as fun. I must have done 500 squats, picking up stick after stick and tossing them into the fire pit, amazed at the mess, but also at the emerging beauty of daffodils, crocuses, and the soon-to-be greenery that will fill the space.

I had big plans to move one of my sectional couches from the upper deck down and swap it with the glass table and chairs. I was imagining meals up on the deck and, of course, a mahjong table ready to go at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, I had both sons-in-law and Tim to help, so it was quick work with no complaints, sons-in-law are good that way! Who knows if they complain about me behind my back (though I doubt it), but to my face, they’re always agreeable and happy to help.

I must have worked in the yard for three hours before heading in to make lunch for the kids and lounge in the sunshine for a moment. The boys are certainly busy, with nonstop energy, loud shouts of excitement, and an ability to tear through toy after toy without hesitation. The house is now filled with more debries than the yard! 

My daughter invited us all over for dinner, saving me from having to cook another meal and eager for  more time with the new baby, who is just about the sweetest little one ever. He’s happy and content, all smiles and coos, and never makes a fuss…the kind of baby that makes you think it’s a good idea to have another, no doubt. With three boys already, we’ll have to wait and see, but I’d guess there might be a fourth heading our way in a couple of years. It was so sweet to see the older grandkids holding the little one, giants in comparison.

It was a perfect springlike day, a birthday eve for the books. I do find it funny that people ask Tim what he’s getting me… I’ve never been asked what I’m getting him for his Birthday. He did say he’s “shifting gears” for my gift, and I’m not quite sure what that means, so we’ll have to wait and see. I asked if he had made my new comic strip, and apparently he’s started......he’s purchased the paper, so there’s hope, though it’s doubtful there's time for creativity overnight.  I don’t mind when it comes; I’m just looking forward to another original work of art. 

I’ve been receiving gifts every day for a week in the mail from Dawn, who always showers me with presents, spoiled. With every package I open, I think it has to be the last one… and then another arrives. Gifts or no gifts, I can’t help but feel like one of the luckiest gals around. Who knew 61 could be this good?

Cheers to sunshine that lingers just a little longer, to messy yards that promise beauty, and to another year filled with moments just like these. If this is what 61 looks like, I’ll take it.....gratefully, and with open arms for whatever adventure comes next....so long 60...on to another year! 

“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson (don't you just love that quote)?