On this day of freedom, I slowed down to pause, pay attention, snap photos, and give thanks for some of the smallest, simplest, humblest parts of my life in this great country.
The garden, though planted late, clings, climbs, and unfolds yellow starbursts of possibility.
Eldest daughter links and loops a line of variegated purple.
Clothes clasped like family—held firm, but easily released when the time comes; in the background, a novice photographer delights in the bokeh effect, pearls of light gleaming in her own back yard.
Soft pink day lily, edges crimped and crinkled like the hem of a vintage skirt.
A katydid, or close cousin, tightwalks along stamen of a whimsical duo; watercolor magenta bleeds from psychedelic yellow into faded rose.
Humble metal chairs, rusty but friendly, are assigned front porch duty—a place to read, write, pray, rest, and wave to neighbors.
Boston ferns along the porch, fronds wafting casually in the breeze, like a girl who lets down her hair will shake her head so that soft strands tumble loose and free.
Shyly joining Ann Voskamp’s Gratitude Community.
Hi Ann. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the “Thousand Gifts” community recently, and I often try to click on the blogs surrounding my post. Today I found yours–interesting that just yesterday I was looking at your two books on Amazon! I look forward to reading them. I am feeling in similar ways–trying to find ways to slow down with a busy family of eight. I think we have to set our hearts on finding peace in the middle of the busyness as well (I am reminded of the story of Susannah Wesley’s prayer apron). Enjoy your week and the sweet, small things!
Julie
Spectacular timing! I have been a bit shy and hesitant to link up to Ann’s community since I’ve been so inconsistent about publicly tracking my “list.” But then I was able to snap some decent pictures and wanted to try.
And now I see how wonderful it was, because it led you to me, and me to you. Perfect timing to say hello and make a new friend. I love the Susannah Wesley prayer signal! She was desperate for solitude and creative about getting it! Also, modeling its importance to have a deep relationship with the Lord in the midst of motherhood.
So glad to meet you.
That lily. . . those ferns. . . so beautiful. And your descriptions made me appreciate their beauty even more. Glad you linked up:)
Oh, thank you so much. I’m glad I linked up, too, so I could meet people like you, Amy.
Just reading the comments above–I think I told you that I followed links after reading a review of your book on another blog and somehow (providence?) found my way to Ann Voskamp and the Gratitude Community. I started blogging in order to be a part of that community, and then I found my way back to you. Happy providence!
Ah! I’d forgotten that beautiful connecting thread running throughout us! Thank you for reminding me–another thing to be grateful for.
love your pictures and your list ann. the heart on your daughter’s hand makes that picture perfect.
You know, I didn’t notice the heart when I snapped. I was trying to focus on the crochet hook in late-afternoon low lighting, holding very still. Later, when I was clicking through the snapshots, I saw her little Bic-drawn tattoo. 🙂
I’m stuck on “easily released” as I prepare myself for my daughter’s move across an ocean….with my son(in-law) and grandsons….
Thanks, Ann, for reorienting me to the gratitude, the endless mercies.
Not so easy??
I have only released to smaller outings; have yet to release to the big stuff. Perhaps I’ll compose a different line when that day comes! We are more in the clasped-tightly stage, but only two more school years before I squeeze and release.