3 miles: Walking

My husband and myself went on a fairly long walk today

through the suburban neighborhood that is where I grew up and where my parents still dwell 

And I have never seen so many joyful neighbors walking with their families. 

Time and time again I have always remaked on how independent the world is.

When I grew up (not super long ago) the neighborhood kids used to get together

and ride bicycles

and play kickball in the summers

and travel to and fro throughout the woods on adventures and mini quests

but many years have passed and I always notice how empty the neighborhood is

until today

because people really do value family time and simplistic walks when that is all you have left

of your schedule that is no longer really a normal schedule

The skies were the most briliant shade of blue and 

as we practiced our social distancing we talked and talked about

the houses we liked and didn't like

and maybe what our house will look like in the far future

think about that: discussions centered around green shutters, windows, lawns, brick color

honestly it was so refreshing

it was so refreshing just noticing the beauty around us and imagining what the inside of that house looked like

and who lived there and what they did

I guess we tend to think more about the "what-ifs" when we are allowed to do so

And we tend to think more about the beauty of the outdoors...when we actually allow ourselves to enjoy 

those wooded areas filled with beauty

Say hello to a neighbor

and like the chalk messages we saw in front of many of the houses

be kind

have faith

fill your love with grace

stamp a chalk note on your heart

and the hearts of others

embrace the outdoor whimsy and clear your mind-there has never been a better moment to do so.