An hour-long vacation

Sometimes the nicest vacations are as simple as an ice cream cone licked with the one you love,

listening to the trickle of water and the chirping of birds overhead

or sneaking away for an hour's hike to the waterfall at the park just down the road...

The Wanderer

 The perfect way to spend a summer evening is aboard a restored 1928 yacht.

This I know because I did just that on our friends' gem of a restored classic wooden boat.

What is it about varnished wood, polished brass, and all those beautiful tiny details?

This boat reminded me of a magical gypsy caravan, something that could take you anywhere. 

It feels like a place where anything could happen.

We didn't even move from the slip and I felt I'd been away on vacation!

Everything was perfectly fit into a charming arrangement of little vignettes...

 

This one thing.

"What if you stopped multitasking?" she asked me. "What if you simply did one thing, and gave it all your attention? What if you slowed down?"

"What if you were fully present instead of trying to cram everything in?"

"If you tasted every cup of tea- I mean really tasted and enjoyed each sip before going on to the next thing?"

That niece of mine was on to something.

I haven't accomplished as much this summer,

but it's been deeper, richer, more fulfilling.

Being more mindful of the little things has made me more content.

I've challenged myself to live deep, not fast this summer
and it's been wonderful.

Giving my full attention to each person, each scent, taste, and task.

 So I pass along the question to you.

What if you simply did one thing at a time?

Stopped hurrying?

Really enjoyed each little moment?

What would that look like?

And how would it change you?

I double dog dare you!
Give it a try.
One little thing. Savor it.
Each moment.

Be aware, fully present, immersed in just one thing,
and always, always thankful for each little thing.