How long has it been?

We went to the park today. A lovely fall day beckoned (there's the Anne coming out again), and it was warm, no wind, and I had a super energetic JLP: the perfect combination for a walk to the park. On days I want him to burn more energy I have him walk beside the stroller. He walked most of the way today.

The leaves are changing color, so we looked at the pretty colors, and I drove the stroller through the leaves on the sidewalk so we could crunch them. At the park JLP got right on the playground. He really loves to play when other kids are there; if he's alone it's just not as fun. CDP was sleeping, so I just stretched out on the grass.

I found myself watching the clouds drift by. How long has it been since I've done that? Years. I couldn't even believe it. In those few minutes I retrieved perspective for my life, saw some fun shapes, introduced JLP to cloud-gazing, and rejuvenated my soul. As I realized how long it had been, I thought about all the other 'How long has it been since I ___________''s in my life. (Not sure if that made sense, so you may have to read it again.) Called a friend just because? Written a thank-you note? Paused to look at the stars? Really looked in my child's eyes when I said 'I LOVE YOU!'? These are the tiny things that bring infinite meaning to my life. So I ask (rhetorically): How long has it been for you?

On a much less philosophical note: LHP purchased two $110 tennis rackets ($220 total retail) at a sporting goods liquidation place for $25 total. One has to be re-stringed ($5), so we got a screaming deal. Now we just have to learn how to play...