As the summer sun reaches its peak, we find ourselves reflecting on the fleeting nature of time. The fourth of July has come and gone, marking the midpoint of summer, and with it, a sense of urgency to make the most of every moment.
This year, our family is experiencing a whirlwind of new beginnings. Our four adult children are either welcoming new babies or moving into new homes, bringing the count of our grandchildren to a remarkable twelve. It’s a time of change and growth, a theme that resonates deeply with the spirit of summer.
Capturing the Perfect Moment
Before the summer activities kicked into full gear, I had the pleasure of visiting my mom. My sister, Debbie, captured a beautiful moment between us. It was an ordinary day, yet it felt extraordinary. We had just completed a puzzle together, basking in the warmth of the sun and the aroma of a delicious lunch. It was a simple moment, but it felt priceless.
I often jot down one-liners that resonate with me, though I’m terrible at noting their sources. One such line reads, “Happiness isn’t found in constant pleasure, but in moments that make ordinary things feel extraordinary.” That picture with my mom was one of those moments, a testament to the beauty of simple joys.
Finding Joy in the Simple Things
Do you remember the last time you felt that overwhelming sense of joy? It’s not often at grand events or special occasions; it’s usually triggered by a smile, a scent, a scenic view, or a warm hug. For me, these moments often occur in the summertime, when I have the opportunity to travel and connect with family and friends.
Mother nature, the scent of baking, and the faces of children have a unique way of turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. What are your triggers? Are there common settings or activities that put you into that extraordinary mode? Can you intentionally put yourself in those environments to experience the extraordinary more often?
Grandkids’ One Liners
As a grandmother, I often hear adorable one-liners from our grandchildren that bring a smile to my face. Phrases like “I missed you, Mimi!” and “You’re squishy, Mimi” remind me of the simple joys in life. Our secret three-squeeze hand hold, which means “I love you,” and our playful goodbyes are moments that turn ordinary interactions into extraordinary memories.
The Value of Health and Wellness
While I often write about financial health, this month my focus is on the priceless aspect of our It’s a reminder that our well-being is the most valuable asset we have. Taking the time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life, whether it’s a quiet weekend at home or a visit with loved ones, is essential for our well-being.
It’s interesting how, as we grow older, it’s the simple things in life that we often enjoy the most. I still find myself appreciating weekends when we don’t have anything on the calendar. Staying home, catching up on phone visits, reading, or working on house projects, and enjoying home-cooked meals is a favorite weekend staycation at our house.
Recently, I met a woman who coordinated an interview series with women about how to pivot in life. Her introductory email contained a quote that has stuck with me all summer. It’s the last line from the poem The Summer Day by Mary Oliver: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” The words one, wild, and precious all jump out at me in that question. We only live once, so how do we want it to go, and what are we doing about that?
So, the more chances we can enjoy the transformation of an ordinary moment into an extraordinary one, the better. Wishing you many wild, precious, and priceless moments this summer and throughout your life.
Let’s have a conversation: What ordinary turned extraordinary moments have you enjoyed? What made them priceless to you? How can you have more of them? Share your thoughts and experiences.
