Dragonflies and wildflowers

Today my whole crew went to a family day

sponsored by a singles group I belong to.

We had a delightful time.

There were activities planned for all ages.

My daughters played corn hole in the children's tournament and I played with a friend against my sister and another single paired up with us for the fun.

I had never honestly played the beanbag tossing game

for grownups and other happy people.

My partner and I got into it,

high fiving and cheering when we actually scored...

not bothered a bit when we didn't.

Though I admit we were silly,

no one minded our exuberance.

We had cookout food, coffee and cookies.

I had a smile on my face

that was mirrored by those around me.

Happy,

innocent,

fun.

Our nature walk was led by an older gentleman with a great love of the outdoors. Though a tad serious, he was quite knowledgeable.

(Though apparently he was unafraid of poison ivy...yikes! I hope I don't have too many angry itchy welts tomorrow.)

Pointing out wildflowers and insects as we wandered,

he was pleased to have an audience.

We delighted in waist high wild flowers,

lady bugs

and dragon flies.

I shrieked at a surprise spider

and even got covered in mud

rescuing my nephew

from a particularly damp section of trail.

When my nephew reclaimed his flowers

and gave them to his mom,

a trail mate bent over and picked me more.

I smiled when my new friend

quietly picked buds off a tree

that our leader had proclaimed "too high" to reach

just so we could enjoy their fragrance.

I smiled

as I sipped my coffee

listening to the rain on the roof of the barn.

I smiled

as out in the field,

kind teenagers played ball with my nephew.

I smiled across the table

at the interesting quiet man

who shared the day with me.

Most of all though,

I smiled at my own daughters,

who enjoyed the nature trail,

entertained each other with Uno games

and congenial conversations.

It was truly a "Family Day".

Happy memories,

and need I say again...

smiles all around.

Tonight and always,

may the ones you claim as family

never be too far from your heart or your arms.

No matter where your trail takes you,

I pray,

that you will always find moments,

to enjoy what makes you happy...

Be it dragonflies,

offered wildflowers

or even mud.

May you be blessed,

Today,

Tomorrow,

Always.