Some of the “Wonderful Things”

I spent a few days at the home of my daughter and her family this past weekend as we celebrated my birthday, my grandson’s birthday and Valentine’s day. Having returned home now, leaving my girlfriend behind for a few more days, I have been reflecting on some wonderful things.

• Freezing in an ice rink while experiencing the thrill of watching my 8 year old grandson, nicknamed “Baby Eagle” by his teammates because of his size (he’s playing with kids older and bigger). Watching him skate with grace that seemed far beyond his years and watching, with pride, his enthusiasm and hustle, earning the respect of his older teammates.
• Eating lasagna made by my daughter who had never made lasagna before but dived in at my request for birthday dinner. It was AMAZING! And the requested peach cobbler for dessert was even better than icing on the cake!
• Sitting for nearly two hours with a granddaughter as we looked at books and on line websites filled with house floorplans while listening to her explain the benefits and drawbacks of each one as relates to having Grampy and Grammy come and live with them some day.
• Hearing the screeching giggles of three grandkids and the hearty laughter of my daughter and wife as we played the game TELESTRATIONS. I think I could play the game for hours just for that reason.
• Hearing the joy in my grandson’s voice as he opened his birthday present from us … (six books in the Nathan Hale Hazardous Adventures series)
• Receiving several “therapeutic” hugs from one of my granddaughters.
• Sitting with my grandson as he coached me on playing the computer game “Oregon Trail”.
• Having my daughter make me promise to “eat well” (i.e.: don’t gorge on doughnuts, cookies and “bad stuff”) for the few days that I am now home without my girlfriend.
• Watching my daughter show sensitivity to the moods of her children and adjusting her response to things they say to suit the mood of the moment.
• Watching my grandkids “wheedle “just a few more minutes of video screen time” out of their Mom as bedtime approached.
• Being reassured by words … and by actions of the love my daughter and son-in-law have for me … for the Lord … and for one another!

Thank you, Lord, for the wonderful things of everyday life!