I was surprised at how much fun I had with the tiniest love of my heart. Without the stage to 'perform' for his brothers and without having to fight for my attention, he was the most delightful of companions on that day. PB&J picnic near the slopes watching skiers, playing in the snow, making brownies for our family to enjoy at dinner, and a fun hot chocolate stop in town while we went in and out of little stores.
Sitting outside letting our faces warm up in the 17* afternoon sun, he leaned over and offered his cup of hot chocolate to toast mine (Where did he learn that?). We clinked our paper cups and he laughed. "This is cool" he said with a happy little smile. Yes it was. The coolest.
At first I felt I might be missing out on all the 'action' of the other kids, zipping down the ski slopes, recounting every run with animation. By the end of the afternoon I realized I couldn't have had a better day. It was a quiet, easy day with a pint sized amazing kid. And I didn't wish away one minute of it.
How often I overlook the small joys in life because I'm in search of something I perceive to be more exciting. But on that day, my little coffee date reminded me of a valuable lesson.
Father, may you always teach me to find the joy in the small things.