A simple pile of blankets sits upon the sofa. Velveteen and fluffy, each one provides more than warmth and coziness. With the help of two creative kids, these squares of soft cloth become elaborate tunnels, the roof to a toddler-sized house, cushions for jumping into, and togae or capes.
With the vast array of kids' toys that are on the market today, it always amazes me that the most fascinating objects to my boys are often the most common. Blankets, shiny pans, wooden spoons and whisks, a painted turtle crawling through the yard, a bit of yarn, tinkling bells, and books gallore. These bring more smiles to their faces than most of the toys we have for them.
Life is like that for adults, too. Think of what brings you true moments of joy? For me, smiles on the faces of those I love, freshly blooming flowers in the garden, a colorful sunrise or sunset framed by deep blue mountain crests, and the magical beauty of transformation - the emerging butterfly, a cicada skin, the reawakening of a tortured soul.
How does happiness creep into your life? Which simplicities matter most to you?
Perhaps you could share some of life's beauties with a friend that may need reminding of how much you care.
With the vast array of kids' toys that are on the market today, it always amazes me that the most fascinating objects to my boys are often the most common. Blankets, shiny pans, wooden spoons and whisks, a painted turtle crawling through the yard, a bit of yarn, tinkling bells, and books gallore. These bring more smiles to their faces than most of the toys we have for them.
Life is like that for adults, too. Think of what brings you true moments of joy? For me, smiles on the faces of those I love, freshly blooming flowers in the garden, a colorful sunrise or sunset framed by deep blue mountain crests, and the magical beauty of transformation - the emerging butterfly, a cicada skin, the reawakening of a tortured soul.
How does happiness creep into your life? Which simplicities matter most to you?
Perhaps you could share some of life's beauties with a friend that may need reminding of how much you care.