Day 586

As a child, I waited for that first snowfall and a white Christmas to follow! These days, I am quite content with dry sidewalks and warm temperatures...within reason. Today's high was near 50 degrees, so we made the most of it with numerous walks and visits with neighbors out-and-about.

It is interesting that, as we "mature", our wishes and dreams are not as dramatic or far from home as they once were. In younger years, we all tend to look forward and outward to wonderful adventures. As the years fly by, those desires turn inward and closer to home.

With no snow on the ground, the Goldens are enjoying more time to sniff their way through walks down by the river. For their "walker," tennis shoes still suffice while I save my new cleated boots for a later, slipperier walk. That is fine with me! Doing that "Minnesota Slipping Dance" can wait for a later date!

Walking with my Goldens has offered me moments to reflect without paying close attention to any fancy footwork. With each step, it seems my dreams and wishes center around those who are held close to my heart. Even though travel still holds some allure, home and family surpass those visions. There seems to be a true contentment in embracing home and loved ones as apposed to years ago when the heart longed for adventure!

Looking outward as a younger person held excitement and potential for adventure. Looking inward, as an older adult, holds the same place in my heart and might even be held more dear. Family, Goldens and home are such blessings right now. As the holidays are upon us, those are the things I cherish most.

Hug those loved ones...both two and four-footed ones...and enjoy the simple fact that you are surrounded by warmth and love. No adventure is greater than that!