I had a very busy day today, shuttling kids from one activity to the next. As I was packing lunches for everyone this morning I was trying to figure out how I was going to get my little one lunch in the twenty minutes she had between activities, so I packed a lunch for the two of us, thinking we'd eat in the car between activities. Story hour ended a little early and as I was walking through the parking lot, I decided to take our lunch and have an impromtu picnic at the school playground. Little did I know this lunch was nourishment for the soul.
I found a quilt in the back of the car, grabbed our food and we were off. As we walked to a perfect spot under a shade tree I felt myself physically slowing down. Walking slower behind my daughter and listening to her excitement over eating a sandwich in the park. We were serenaded by songbirds as we talked about the stories we just read at the library and all the friends she had just met. Time began to slow and I found myself breathing easier, taking in the surroundings and really listening to what my three year old was telling me.
After lunch we even had a little time to hit the playground and slide down the slide. When was the last time you slid down a slipper slide? If it hasn't been recently, I highly recommend it. I don't know what was more exhilerating - the slide or my three year old's squeal of delight that mommy was sliding! Our whole lunch lasted thirty minutes and it was off to the next activity, but it felt that just for a few minutes time stood still. My challenge for you this week is to eat at least one meal outside. The next time you find yourself at a fast food drive thru, pull over at the first patch of grass you see. Get out of your car and eat outside. I believe the food tastes better in the fresh air. If your really feeling frisky, kick your shoes off and actually feel the grass between your toes. It will give you the boost you need to get through the rest of your day.
Please take a moment to check out TheFarmersWifeCT to add this lovely picnic basket to your next outing. If your looking for your own quilt to travel with, please take a moment to check out TheArtistsHouse as well as her blog.