Rain Drops Falling on My Head

I remember when rain opened up a whole other world. As a child it provided us with instant mud pie making materials, was a hoot to drive my bike in, and lets not forget the joy of jumping in a puddle to see who could make a bigger splash! Ahhh, the innocence of childhood when things were still simple enough for us to not only notice the little things but take great joy in reveling in them.

When's the last time you did something like that? Noticed something and got so engrossed in it that you had the time to soak it all up? Why do we let ourselves get so wrapped up in the chaos, so convinced that things have to be "just so" that we rule out the opportunities that present themselves for such simple pleasures?

I'm proud to say that there are a few memories from my adult life in which I was still able to capture some of that magic. Admittedly those moments weren't often enough, so I'm working on that. Still, here's a few that might give you a few ideas:

• getting a magnifying glass & burning "Sara + ...." into our wooden deck
• sitting on our back porch (with aluminum roof) listening to the hypnotic music of the rain
• laying on grass watching creatures navigate the towering blades of grass
• getting caught in a soft rain shower while riding my bike & instead of running home, slowing down - even taking the long way back just to feel it

Yes, I'm well aware that three recollections does not a inspiring story make - but they're the ones that really stand out in my memory and will be cherished forever. As for the occasional rain drops falling on my head, well I primarily grew up in the very wet state of Louisiana and have always had an affinity for storms and all that come with them. I usually have my bed against, or very near a window and have spent countless hours laying there with the window cracked so I could listen to as well as see the wonderful world outside when it rained. After childhood, I wasn't as keen to get wet unnecessarily - so this vantage point was ideal. I could still see the rain drip, mist, caress or pelt the window panes...smell the sweet, fresh, new air that rain brought with it, and watch it all change my little world right before my eyes.

So while I haven't jumped in a puddle in quite some time - next time I just might! And whether its that or some other simple observation of nature you stumble upon...I invite you to find a way to embrace and enjoy it for all its worth as well. After all, life moves fast enough as it is - why not tap the brakes now and again and enjoy those rain drops falling on your head?