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Wednesday, September 2, 2009

There was something about the way the September sunlight played against the swings.

There was something about the way the September sunlight played against the swings on the playground today while I was chasing after 14 three-year-olds that immediately took me back.

The swiftness in which I was carried back through the years almost took my breath away. Memories of Peter and Sarah played in my mind like old film footage, grainy and silent.

We were at the park. Sarah was giggling as I pushed her in the swings and Peter was running and jumping and climbing. I was holding my breath and praying his two-year-old legs wouldn't betray him.

I remembered another favorite park. The giant sand box was filled with buckets and bulldozers and shovels. The day was hot and we had packed a lunch of sandwiches and chocolate Pokky.

And then I recalled the many times I loaded both kids into the double stroller for a long walk through the neighborhood. Our old neighborhood was fairly large but most of the moms I knew worked so I spent many days with no one to talk to except my kids.

I spent those long walks babbling about the trees, the grass and the sky - nothing in particular. We would make it all the way to the coffee shop where I would order an iced chai latte and the kids would fuss until I reluctantly shared my treat with them. They would pass the icy drink back and forth while I began the trek back home.

I felt someone tug on my shirttail. I glanced up at the sky and noticed that the angle of the sun had changed ever so slightly and I was pulled back into the present.

13 comments:

He & Me + 3 said...

Beautiful. lOve your writing.

Grandma T said...

Yes, beautiful!

Denise said...

Very, very lovely.

Chris said...

I keep reading the title over and over again! There is something particularly mesmerizing about it.

Your words wove a beautiful memory around us all. Thank you.

Robin hill farm said...

Isn't it amazing how certain things can trigger old memories. What a beautiful memory of sweet times with your babies. Have a great day, Beth.

Colleen said...

I realize how much I need to appreciate this season of young children. Thank you!

Wendy said...

Beautifully written.

Kim said...

Beautiful Beth! Yesterday in MOPS our Mentor Mom challange was about cherishing the moments, your post reconfirms that :)

Corey~living and loving said...

This is a very beautifully written piece. thank you for sharing it with me.

These are the Days! said...

Sigh...soooo true. I'm trying to cherish every moment. I had a similar experience yesterday while walking with my two...I'm so emotional anyway right now, with Connor starting preschool...so silly, but I know these years will fly by so quickly! Thanks for your beautiful words!

RR Mama said...

Such precious memories!

Rebekah said...

Nicely written. What is it about Fall days that always seem to bring back those memories- at least for me they do.

Megan Cobb said...

Thank you. I WILL remember these days. I know I'll miss them, too, and that they'll be over way too soon. I needed this, sweet friend, and I hope your heart makes the adjustment and feels less sad very, very soon.