So I’m sitting out here in the back, barely able to move my own brain.
I injured my neck yesterday doing something so harrowing, so intense, so athletic that you will think I was crazy for even asking my body to attempt it…
I was putting on a shirt.
Yes, just right there in the middle of lowering my head through the opening, my neck burned and sizzled and decided that it didn’t really want to move regularly anymore. The last time this happened, about two years ago, I was doing something equally as strenuous…
sleeping.
Hi thirties.
It’s mid-day here, right at the lunch hour, when the sun is high and bright and beaming. My oldest just peeked through the storm door to ask me how much heat the green beans need before they boil.
Because his Mama’s neck hurts, he is making lunch. He told me to stay outside and lean back in my lawn chair, that he could do it just fine. Nine year olds sure do come in handy sometimes.
I have Old Man and the Sea sitting on my lap. Most folks read this as required reading during high school, but I didn’t do much reading then. My material at that point consisted mostly of passed notes, instant messages, and teen magazines. My loss. My life would have been richer for the reading. It is now, however. And I’m grateful for the grace.
The youngest just came out with Greek vanilla yogurt all over his face, saving a bit for later I suppose. He kisses me all wet and dairy right on my nose. I welcome it, because he has been a little bit of a stinker today. Three year olds will let loose like that sometimes.
But don’t we all every now and again?
I head in because my own stomach needs a filling. My neck’s a little looser and my mood’s a little lighter.
Some of us just need to sit outside and let the sun shine down every once in a while.
I thank the Creator of it all, often – for the sun, the warmth, the climate I currently live in, the palms, the pines, the buds, the flowers, the gardens. They enliven me. Spring should have us all saying thanks. Fall shouldn’t be the only season known for the giving of gratefulness. There’s so much life to behold right now. Let us be awake and wise to see it.
I’m not saying for one second that there aren’t atrocities to be astonished at the world over these days. I’m seeing them, too – and if I’m being honest they are making me dance and skirt around the doubt abyss a bit.
But in my confusion, anger, shock, and concern – I don’t want to make the mistake I’ve made before by not taking note of the beautiful things, as well.
Lunch was consumed, cleaned up, and apparently digested quickly because the kids started asking for snack shortly thereafter.
My neck is mending.
Thankful now for spring sunshine, chiropractors, and tender little boys who make lunch for afflicted mamas.
I’m praying even now, friend – that your Easter weekend and mine, is filled with fresh revelations of Christ, the cross, and the care we all find in Him everyday.
Katie, I love reading your writing so much. You have become the most amazing woman. When I read, I feel like I have just sat down and talked with you. You have such a talent and gift that could have only come from God.
Love to you and your precious family.
Suzanne! You are dear to me! Thank you so much for reading, and for the very kind encouragement. Love and hugs to you this Easter weekend!