Simple Pleasures, Part III

I've noticed that some things are simple, but not pleasurable- folding clothes, unloading the dishwasher, changing a dirty diaper, untying shoe laces, driving the van with all five children inside and the like. Some things are pleasurable but not simple- making a dinner that is healthy and that everyone likes, teaching algebra to Sarah, taking a family trip to the beach in the summer, finding quiet time alone to read and pray. So I am truly enjoying the things that are both- drinking hot chocolate on a cold day in my favorite mug that sarah made for me, watching my boys build a fort or an original Lego design, watch Sandy as she colors so intensely or dancing around the room with Annie. I have danced more in the last few days than I have in a long, long time- just trying to savor Annie's sweet smell, size and total dependence on me. I'm finding it enjoyable to slow down and enjoy the little moments that only a newborn in the house can bring. Maybe I'm avoiding paying the bills, working on our taxes, reading Sarah's science book, studying, or other things that are neither simple nor pleasurable but which will always be looming. In light of all that is going on in the world, I am so grateful to even have the chance to choose to give a hug, blow a kiss, offer words of thanks and dance.