Noticing

Leaving for Louisiana means many things. First, I get the opportunity to speak to a group of soon-to-be teachers in Shreveport. It’s an honor to get to fly to a different place and encourage others.

This always lights my fire.

However, with traveling comes perspective. It also comes with noticing many things.

Thing 1: The south truly is hospitable. Everyone from the TSA agents to the hotel attendants are beyond kind. They make you feel special.

Thing 2: What happened to conversation and playing? Cell phones and tablets have replaced eyeballs looking at each other to converse and kids playing with toys. Moms now tote only an iPad and headphones to allow the child to tune out and be completely distracted. No imagining. No creative play. No coloring. Just stare at a screen. In fact, that is pretty much all I see on the plane and at the airport: A bunch of screen-crazed zombies.

Thing 3: I have a very kind, giving boyfriend. He did more than I could have imagined to make sure Tatum was taken care of. He picked her up and took her to his house for a game of LIFE.

She got to take not only a bath but in a royal tub filled with cups and salad bowls. He makes her special meals and gives her lots of love in my absence.

She gets a special cozy bed at the foot of his bed.

She looks pretty darn content.

Thing 3: Did I mention I have a sacrificing boyfriend? He took the day off to make sure Tatum got to school on time and then picked her up for lunch and fun at the park.

I think she’s enjoying herself, yes? I’m very blessed and grateful.

Thing 4: Going away can be good for perspective. When I came home, I couldn’t wait to give my Tot a bigger hug and bigger kiss than usual. Doug deserved a huge hug, but I failed to show my appreciation as much as I should have.

The next day for Tatum and me  it meant the next day, we’d make it a fun day; I’d treat her to a special breakfast at Scramble ….


and a fun craft….

I’m glad that when my Tatum cannot figure out what to do, she chooses to pull out some books, lines up her dolls, and reads.

Noticing is good. I am one not to have my nose in my phone. I tend to notice. Lord, help me to notice more often, and not take anything for granted. This life is but a whisper.