Today I find myself dreaming of yesterday...
As I get older I find myself wanting to go against the trends of today, yes, as I sit here writing a blog! I find that most people (not all) live their lives via social media. As I check my email, Facebook and Instagram on a regular basis dissatisfaction with life sets in. I find myself wanting to get out, out of my house, in the fresh air, living life! Not being confined inside...
I have found once again my love to be outside. I find myself wondering around my yard, pulling weeds, talking to my flowers and contemplating LIFE! There is just something about being outside with the sun beating down on you and the sound of the wind ruffling through the trees, watching the ants scurry about or the squirrels chasing each other that just sets me at peace and makes me feel alive.
When I was growing up I spent a lot of my time with my paternal grandparents. I would follow my Papa around. He was always outside tending his garden, working in the yard, chopping word or digging worms for us to go fishing. I could pick tomatoes, cut okra, break up the ground in preparation to plant, mow grass, clean and gut fresh fish we had just caught, shell peas... I could even change tires, dig up septic lines, climb trees and chase dogs. My favorite would be the fishing. When my Papa would back that ol Toyota pick up truck to the boat we knew we were in for an adventure. The thrill of loading up the boat to head to the Dog River, putting the boat in the water, the spray in our face as that little boat went full throttle down the river. Then the casting of your line and the quiet stillness as you watched for signs of a fish on your line. The absolute stillness as you held your breath waiting, watching the life go on around you. The alligators peaking at you, the snakes hanging from trees, hoping they did not fall on you as you slowly made your way down the river. Then your stop at the little beach to cool off. I so remember the first plunge into the icy river and then the sudden realization you are swimming in the very water where you just minutes ago saw those piercing eyes watching you from a distance, thinking what a tasty snack you would be.
I still enjoy the occasional visit to the river to watch the boats go by and remember. Life really was more simple then and there was always an adventure to be had. We knew our neighbors and we had friends we spent time with face to face.
I realize we can never go back to the way things were but I can venture out and try some new things with my children. I can try to instill in them some of the things that I learned as a kid. They do follow me out sometimes and we so enjoy the days when our neighbors are out too so we can enjoy face to face fellowship. And thankfully I still have some friends that enjoy being out and about.
In all this I have an even greater appreciation for my childhood and my grandparents and how they lived. Some of the good was imparted in me. I see the things they were trying to instill in and teach me. My family is far from perfect but the next time I go visit my maternal Grandmother I will have no problem following her around her yard as she shows me all her beauties. I will enjoy every minute I spend with her and soak it all in and hope to gain some wisdom. I miss my Paternal grandparents but know I will see them again one day soon. Again thankful for the days gone by.
