Abby's favorite picture she took on our hike. April 15, 2012

This past weekend Tom, the girls, and I took a beautiful hike up to Mt. Si near North Bend. (Carson was siezing his day at the dirt bike jumps...). My sweet Abby had been attempting to take pictures with the camera she received for Christmas from the time we stepped foot on the trail. "On the way down," I told her. "I'll stop with you on the way down." It appeared just like the rest of our life, even our 'down time' together was fast-paced... not that this itself is a bad thing.

As promised, on the way down I stopped with Abby as she felt the need to snap some pictures and take in what was truly a breathtaking view of nature on a spectular day. About half way down, Tom and the other two girls were out of our sight.

When were about three-quarters through this 4.5 mile trek, Abby said to me these following words:

"Mom, I don't see why we have to hurry through this hike. It's not like we come here everyday. It's about the adventure and not just rushing through."

I asked her to repeat herself three times to let it sink in for both of us. This is why I love this child so much. At almost 13 years-old, she understands about being present and in the moment. None of us are ever "here everyday." Even if our lives seem routine and mundane, everyday and every moment is a unique gift... we just have to be aware of our thoughts to make space to recognize these offerings (in this case, the gorgeous scenery and having uninterrupted time together).

As Abby said, "It's about the adventure and not just rushing through." For me it's times when I'm in the state of mind my wise Abby speaks of that I am the most joyful, content, and at peace with all the other 'stuff' that can easily cloud my personal experience.

Thanks for the reminder Abby. ;)

What or who reminds you about being present?

Intentionally,

Lisa