The morning was chilly, but the sun was bright. The day was perfect for a first grade field trip to a local museum. There would be dinosaurs, a butterfly house, bears, space, bugs, weather stations, and so much more. The indoor activities would be exciting, but the students were most looking forward to the tree houses outside. My husband and I were excited too. It had worked out that we could both be chaperons, and this field trip day with our little boy was going to be fun! We had taken our girls to this same museum when they were in first grade, and it was finally his turn.
He begged to ride the school bus there. So, even though it would be easier and faster just to leave from home, we gave in to his pleas. He had his seat buddy, his snack for the ride and a few ideas for road trip games on the 1.5 hour trip. We had 1.5 hours with no other kids in the car. Just a chance to talk and catch up. The trip went smoothly and soon we were all happily at our field trip destination.
The morning flew by, and before we knew it, lunchtime had arrived. We dined on turkey sandwiches, chips, fruit and a chocolate chip cookie for a treat. We had the perfect spot in the picnic shelter. After lunch it would finally be time for the animals and then the huge treehouses. As moms talked and dads were on supervising duties, I meandered from one group to the next. Then, off in the distance, something caught my eye. Out in a small secluded area of the forest, there were huge blue hammocks. They looked so inviting. Oh to sit back and relax for just a moment. Would I feel too guilty? Should I tell others where I was going? I decided I could go for just a minute and indulge in some quiet time. The breeze was refreshing, the trees were calming, the birds were singing, and I was breathing in the tranquility.
As moms, we find it hard to take time for ourselves. There's never a dull moment or a lot of quiet time available. We're constantly go go go! But with a few minutes to take in God's creation and breathe the fresh air, I was reminded how important it is to find time each day for quiet. The Lord's peace washed over me as I looked at the clear blue sky and remembered His goodness and His faithfulness. If I could find this few minutes of peace on a field trip, I should be able to pencil in a few minutes everyday to spend alone time with God. It will not be the same scenery, and I don't own a hammock, but it will be time with my heavenly Father. So look for the time and the space to read, refresh, pray and listen. Do not feel guilty about taking a minute to renew your spirit. It will be so beneficial to not only you but your family also.
2 Thess 3:16
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you."
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