Garbage Man

Owen and I had a quiet morning with nothing on the agenda, and following his lead of what he thought would be fun, I had a wonderful opportunity to learn a sweet lesson from a toddler: slow down and enjoy the simple things. OK, so not a new or profound lesson, but one I find myself consistently working-on.

Recently I came across a quote that encapsulates this well: "Dear God, please give me your perspective that I might recognize the important and leave behind the insignificant".

The important can come in many packages, but as the mom of a young toddler I constantly find myself treasuring the simplicity of life through his eyes. I watch him in utter love and amazement as he discovers the world. I try to capture these moments in my mind - his little voice, his expressions, his curiosity, energy and enthusiasm. I know these days and ages are quickly fleeting (and onto new equally wonderful phases, no doubt), and with this awareness - I've now put that quote on a sticky-note on my computer to remind myself that "to do" items can often wait. Quality time with Owen is precious and not to be missed!

So - back to our morning today. Tuesday is garbage day, and Owen loves to watch out the window as the garbage man makes his way down the street. Thanks to a sunny start to the day (although cold - at 39 degrees!) I thought we should really go-for-it today. We bundled-up and headed outside to see the garbage man up close and personal. Owen loved it, and proceeded to follow the garbage man from house to house for several blocks. It was precious, and I found myself smiling as I observed him watching the garbage man and truck in amazement. I paused to appreciate those garbage men (and women) who are so critical to our community and often underappreciated no doubt!

Thank you, garbage man, for your hard work and for a reason to get outside early this morning and take a long slow walk with my toddler.