A walk in the park

I'm feeling incredibly thoughtful today. Maybe it's because it's not oppressively hot for once and I was able to reconnect with nature this morning. My dad and I took Levi to Kesling Park for a 2-mile stroll, and the weather was absolutely perfect. Mid 70's, a glorious breeze, and not a cloud in the sky. My dad, who refers to himself quite often in the third person as Jaybird, is honestly one of my favorite people in the entire world. I think that's how most girls feel, but I might think that about him even if he weren't my father. He is patient and giving and really very funny. At 75 he works harder than almost anyone I know, and he has never complained about raising two families and "retiring" 20 years ago to only pick up more work than he left behind. He has the best attitude--give him any situation, any setback or disappointment, and he'll accept it, let it go, and move on with positivity. He looks at life as a blessing, at each day as something to embrace and enjoy. Zach loves teasing me about my dad's enthusiasm for the simple things; he'll open a new shirt and literally whistle and exclaim, "How about that?" even if he already owns three just like it. He's happy, and I want to be just like him.

Jaybird is known for his love for barbershop, his friendly and outgoing demeanor (he can make friends with anyone, anywhere, any time), and his penchant for terrible jokes. He also gives simple but powerful advice. He always tells me that worrying is like a rocking chair--you can go back and forth for hours and still not get anywhere. When I'll learn to heed his advice and quit worrying is another story. I'm just so good at it, why give it up? He also taught me back in the fifth grade an advanced rendition of "Three Blind Mice" that I still bust out at parties occasionally. (It's called "Three Sightless Rodents" if you're interested... I can perform it any time for ya! Actually, some of my students recorded me singing it this year so it very well may be on Youtube already.)  Most of all, my dad is a lover. He loves those around him so much. I don't know how he can find that much love to give, honestly. I'm lucky to have him as my dad.

Giving me away

I also spent some time this morning on the wonderful timesuck that is Pinterest. I've long been a fan of quotes; as a writer, I find immense power in words. During my perusal today I came across this little gem:  

To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the things I teach in Literature 10, and I adore this book. It's so powerful and still resonates loudly. I'm struck by this quote today, especially, because I had that time outdoors with my dad and my son. I had no television, no phone, and no internet to distract me. I was able to open my eyes and ears to the beauty of nature, the kindess of strangers, and the peace and joy of being alive. I want to be someone who truly listens to those around her, who can be fair and honest and authentic. I don't want to be blinded by my preconceptions or opinions. I want to learn, to grow, to connect. I can do that by appreciating the goodness my father exudes, by being thankful for a beautiful morning, and by striving to keep my eyes open to the wonders (and wonderful people) around me. Be grateful. Life is so good.