sweet simplicity

The other day, my friend and I drove to the lake, bought a box of pizza, and ate it while watching the sun set over the water. Then, we sat on the boat and gazed at the sky as the pale blue faded into a navy-colored canvas, freckled with what must have been millions of stars. The lightning bugs danced around and we listened to country music and just stared at the sky, and I thought to myself, does it get any better than this? That sweet awe has been a common emotion for me recently. I'm left breathless by the starry sky, the symphony created by the bugs and birds and trickling creek that I can listen to from my back porch, by the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake on a sunny day, the brilliant sunset from Humpback Rock, or the view of Saranac Lake in New York from a parasail in the sky. I am drunk on this summer simplicity- this life away from reality in which I lay out at the pool, read amazing books, and spend time in the company of my wonderful friends and family.


I am struggling so much with the realization that this doesn't last forever. So, with about a month of summer left (even though it sounds like a long time, it will pass extremely quickly), I have decided to drink it all in and attempt to enjoy every single second. Easier said than done, I know. But you, too, should give it a try. Slow down. Keep in mind the fact that life isn't an emergency. Allow Summer to wrap you in a warm, sandy beach towel. Let the sun bronze your skin. Try a new recipe. Eat (and take time to enjoy) good food. Don't skip dessert. Sit in a rocking chair. Read your favorite book. Don't rush hugs (or kisses). Play cards. Enjoy the presence of old friends. Take lots of pictures. Stay in bed just a few minutes longer. Play dress up. Wear super-fun sunglasses. Write people letters. Truly listen when others are speaking. Admire the colorful flowers on your back porch. Be a child, for once. Try to hear the ocean in a sea shell. Remember to tell your family you love them. Don't forget to tell God thank you.


Unfortunately, this slow simplicity is not perennial- be careful not to take it for granted.