My pre-island life was so hurried that I would wake up at 5:30, just so I could get the dogs walked before getting ready for work and rushing out the door by 7:30 each day. I would have to have the TV on to listen to the news as I got ready upstairs. Then I would head downstairs and as I would eat (if I got a chance to eat) I would have my iPad out to read the news, or catch up on email. Usually the oldest son would be on the couch eating while watching TV. At work, I always had music going at my desk. I couldn't function unless there was music. It helps to soothe the soul. In the car, music was always on. Sometimes it would be turned up louder if boys were arguing or someone wouldn't stop talking. There was always some type of exterior noise until I collapsed into bed at 11:30 or later.
Now, I am content to wake up and get ready with no music or TV. There is no TV in our bedroom as of now and I think I could handle it staying out. I still have a hard time weaning myself off the news on the iPad, but I am getting better. I like to work around the house while simply listening to the birds outside or the wind blowing through the palm trees. God's music is heavenly. I like listening to the horses nickering in contentment after they get some carrots and apple. I like listening to the shy western Cardinals that hide in the bushes and sing the prettiest songs, the sweet little song of the finches and even raccous chatter of the funny black birds as they argue. Even just listening to the dogs breathing as they sleep is enjoyable. I have finally learned I don't have to always be tuned in. Don't get me wrong, I still love music, but I don't have to have it on all the time. Life is so peaceful that I can enjoy it without adding more to it.
I love on Sunday's when we sit outside at the church we have been attending. Being able to praise God with our voice and to hear him answer in the crashing waves beside us is amazing. The songs I don't always know, but they are always ones that I need to hear that day. The words seem to talk to me, as if the song were picked for me and me alone. I like listening to the preacher speak as I ponder the lesson that more than not pointed at me. Hearing the birds singing as he preaches just adds to the lesson. I find myself talking to God and thanking him for the little things. I love when my family is all together and able to enjoy a meal together. The quiet moments (few as they are) together brings us closer together. I love that my boys still want to do some things with their Mom and Dad.
I could sit at the beach for hours just watching the waves and seeing the whales pass by. It baffles my mind to think of just how big those whales are that I can see them from over a half mile a way or further. To see them propel themselves out of the water is a feat to behold and be amazed at. These creatures are as long or longer than a school bus. For them to breach takes so much strength and power. To be so lucky to see one of those amazing creatures is what I am thankful for daily. God made some amazingly beautiful creatures for us to enjoy. The colors of the fish just a few feet out in the ocean is amazing. The colors are so vibrant and saturated that you just want to touch them to see if it is real. The colors and shapes of the different fish never leaves me bored. Then, to see a turtle, now that is pretty awesome too. I never thought that I would be so amazed at something that is not particularly the cutest, snuggliest thing on this earth. But, there eyes are like looking into an ancient wised old man. They are dark and piercing, like they can see right into your soul.
