Ahhh....Summer!

Four distinct seasons! I love it!

I am so glad to live smack dab in the middle of the country where we experience four seasons each year. I have visited other parts of the country and love the weather in Southern California but wouldn't it be boring for each day to be exactly like the next. Of course here in Kansas people often joke that if you don't like the weather, just wait 30 minutes and it will change.

Right now I am thoroughly enjoying summer.

Sitting out on the patio late at night looking at the fireflies...

Grilling anything and everything...

Late nights and sleeping in...

Flashlight tag...

Days at the lake skiing, tubing and just floating on a water raft...

Looser schedules....YAY for that one!

Homemade ice cream machines grinding rock salt...

Firework displays held in secret (lest you get caught)...

Listening to the locusts in the trees...

Yes, some places are warm and sunny all the time. I absolutely love summer but when it is fall I will be ready for it and then winter and spring. Each season holds it's own beauty and I am thankful for them all!

What's Wrong With A Little Solitude?

Solitude...the word means different things to different folks.

Some people find the idea of solitude puzzling and some find it downright scary. For me, solitude is like a cool lake...refreshing and renewing. It was with this need for rest and renewal that I chose to spend a few days in complete solitude. The plan was simple, take a few days for myself with some general goals in mind but with no true structure.

It has been interesting to me the reactions I have received in my quest for solitude.

I have been made to feel guilty...

"You are leaving your children?" (They are teenagers and young adults). "You are leaving your husband?" (Only for a couple of days and yes I do love him!)

I have apparently caused worry...

Is something wrong? Are you OK? Is there something you need to tell me? (From my mom who worries about everything...and yes all is well.)

I have received comments that show that some are puzzled...

"What will you do all by yourself? (Whatever I want, thank you very much!)

I have even been the source of envy...

"I would love to be able to be by myself for a few days! (So why don't you take the time?)

I sat out on the deck looking over the lake at our condo this morning drinking my coffee and watching the birds and looking for deer. As I sat, I worked through some personal goals for myself and my family. I planned ways I can be more present as a mom and wife. I thanked God for the wonderful family I had back at home. They did not make me feel guilty...well just a little (smile).

At the end of my few days of solitude I will be bombarded by my husband and five teenagers for the long holiday weekend. I know now I will be ready for them! We will go boating, jetskiing and tubing. We will grill out and play card games. It will be loud and active and I will love every moment of it!

But for today...I will drink another cup of coffee and enjoy....SOLITUDE!