It’s enough to pay attention to the little things. The steam rising off that first cup of coffee. Sunlight coming through the window. There’s no right answer for what’s going to make you happy. There are only these little things that add up to how you spend your days & it can take a long time to see it’s as simple as that.

With so much going on, it’s easy to forget the shining small moments of every single day. Moments that only you see. Moments that sometimes feel as if they’re private messages to you, saying — This. Pay attention to how all life plays when you’re not looking…

From our window, a magpie pushing a frozen apple out of a swirl of leaves so three others could gather around & have a bit of it, too. Driving on a snow covered street & there on one corner, a dog spins around happily & then sits for a treat & his person clapped her hands & it was such a crystalline flash of pure joy from both of them it took my breath away. Others, simple & indescribable, like the taste of chocolate & the smell of cedar & fresh squeezed lemon. Moments that bodies know instantly without any need for words…

Of course, there’s the daily work of our lives. But I have to admit my favorite thing is when the universe sits down beside me & points towards something that’s completely unexpected & oh so easy to miss & smiles, saying, I knew you’d like this…

Flying Edna- Dec. 5, 2020 — Opening reading chosen and read by Nancy L.

The little things… walking along the trail coming upon the “Octopus Tree” was an amazing sight. Surrounded by the beauty of unspoiled nature in the raw it struck me that our native ancestors honored and replenished the natural world. Then I came upon this sign in a tree and it told me that “people” had been here and they, too, honored this place and reminded us that we too can be good stewards of this beautiful earth we call home.

Photos and reflection by Bonnie L.

Walking together through the woods at Huntington:

Peggy:    You could really get lost out here!
Amy:  Trust the path!

(A seeming simple exchange, but upon reflection, quite timely and profound!)

Photos and reflection by Amy W.

This wonder filled walk was alive with the “little things” that cried out pay attention! A lizard sunning itself and camouflaged amongst the fallen trees… tiny flowers and ripening blackberries… magnificent clouds… the smells of the forest… the sweet songs of birds… the sounds of the distant and close up waves… the meandering path. I am so very grateful!

Photos and reflection by Nancy L.