Storm Clouds

Yesterday we had a thunderstorm complete with sideways rain and power that flickered on and off.  Little daughter and middle daughter decided to build a storm shelter in their room out of baby quilts tied from the crib to the changing table.  When the thunder clapped they would scramble into their shelter and cling to each other as they held their baby dolls and teddy bears.  When the storm had a lull they would come out and I would read Beatrix Potter stories to them.  There is something about her stories, that really captivate children.  When my son was a toddler, and his Autism was more severe, those stories were some of the few he would sit still for and listen to.

Today when my son, middle daughter and little daughter went on a nature walk we saw the aftermath of the storm.  There was a beautiful fresh smelling debris on everything.  On our slide there were bits of green leaves, fresh blossoms, and bits of flowers.  Little daughter was disturbed by this, but I told her the angels had decorated the slide.  We found an interesting bug on our step ladder that my son drew lickty-split with amazing accuracy.  I was surprised since he usually draws stick figures for most things.  Middle daughter found an interesting purple flower wild flower to draw.  This was our first venture into nature study following the Charlotte Mason Method and I have to say we all enjoyed it.  I think there is something very restorative about nature, and the outdoors are essential to special needs individuals.

Introduction

I wanted to welcome you to my blog.  Oddly enough,the purpose of my blog is to gently urge folks to unplug form all the media, electronics, and busyness of life,and pursue a quieter more meaningful life.  A life that allows you to talk to real people face to face, write real letters on real paper, to read actual books you can hold in your hands, and hug real loved ones and spend quality, purposeful time with them.  Another reason for creating this blog was to create a quiet little place where friends can go for a little respite and inspiration at the end of a hard day.  My hope is that others will be able to block out the countless meaningless voices that are competing for our attention, time, and money and focus on the most important things in our lives.  So relax, breathe, and go hug a real person, look them in the eye and tell them that you love them. Since today is Mother's Day,  please hug your Mama.