What’s in the Mail Today?

I remember before my kids were born, I used to have all kinds of expectations of motherhood. One of the things I was really looking forward to, was teaching my kids about life. What I didn’t expect though, was how much they would be teaching me.

This morning when I was heading for our mailbox, mr S wanted to come with me. This seemed to be very important to him, and I asked him why.

His answer to me came immediately: “Maybe there’s something for me?”

“But honey” I said, trying to avoid him being disappointed “You know; normally it’s mostly bills and newspapers. It’s not your birthday yet, and I didn’t order anything for you”

“But mom” he said, looking at me as if I was a child that needed to have things thoroughly explained -

“Sometimes we get things even though we haven’t asked for them. Perhaps God sent me something?”

I stopped for a second. In a way, he did have a point.

Sometimes we do get things even though we don’t ask for them. And yes, perhaps God sent us something. Maybe not through the mail as mr S clearly expected (or then again, why not?)

Anyhow, it’s an exciting thought; God actually does send us things. Every single day we are given new opportunities, a chance to change an unwanted situation, or make the most of our dreams; changing our lives – or even the world – for the better. That is our challenge; being able to see the exceptional in the ordinary. Seizing those moments in our everyday lives, instead of just watching the days go by.

Seeing the world through the eyes of a five year old.

My youngest has a somewhat similar approach to life. He has his own special morning ritual; the minute he opens his eyes, he gets out of bed, running over to the nearest window to have a glance at the world.

And then, the question: “What’s outside?”

Is it rain? Is it sunshine? Snow? Green grass? Is it dark outside? Summer? Autumn? Or…?

From a little boy’s view, the world is new every morning. There is a multitude of options out there, and you never know what might happen. To him, every day is a wonderful adventure.

These were my thoughts as I was standing there with a very impatient five year old by my side.

And I said to him: “You know, you’re right; let’s go check the mailbox together”

After all, we never know what life might have in store for us. There just might be some great adventures out there, if we just remember to seize the opportunities given to us and.. well… keeping our minds and hearts a bit adventurous.

Thanks guys, for reminding me

Captain of the Boat

Warm sun and blue water, a small hidden beach with soft sand… What more can we possibly wish for?

Our young captain. Great responsibility requires great concentration!

Just my kind of summer day..

Some “champagne” for celebrating our first boat trip!

Anchoring the boat by the beach

Something in my Ear

I’d like to share a little story. The other night as we were having supper, I was trying to get a message through to Mr S. As usual at bedtime, this was everything but easy.. I often ask myself whether his ears are functioning at all (of course they are working perfectly). Anyway, after trying some – with no result – all of a sudden he turns his face towards me and says in his most sincere and innocent voice: “oh I’m sorry mom, what did you say? I didn’t hear you, you see I had a banana in my ear”.

Now how about that – a banana! What an idea! There wasn’t even any fruit on the menu that evening.

I went to bed laughing that night. A banana in my ear. Can you believe whatever put that thought inside his head. Life is more fun with a five year old