As I sat this morning, at our new patio set we scored off of craigslist, I couldn't help but think how fortunate I am to be able to sit each morning with my girls and really enjoy the start of my day.  My thoughts drifted to the fact  that nothing special was going on; we were just eating our cottage cheese and fruit outside.  Every single thing in this photo is vintage except that Ikea tray.  My point is that nothing here was expensive, but combined I end up feeling like this moment in time is a real treat.  Our neighbor was mowing his lawn, so the girls we yelling hi to him.  They got orange juice mustaches.  I sipped my coffee.  They somehow smeared cottage cheese all over the napkins.  It was just lovely. 

And that's when it occurred to me that I make an effort because it turns small moments into special ones.  Making a small effort to make something beautiful pays off because I find myself lingering longer than expected.  Instead of rushing off to start a load of laundry or send some emails I stay awhile, listening to Olivia say that our neighbor doesn't know what he's missing.  That is when I know that my efforts are appreciated: when a six year old recognizes that this simple meal together is a treat. 

So my wish for you all today is that you make one small thing feel special.  Light some candles to eat with that pizza.  Drink water out of your nice glasses.  Lay out a nice blanket on the grass and lounge a while.  Take one thing that you enjoy doing and allow it to show its full potential.  You will treasure the moment.  You will remember it, because you gave it the respect and attention it deserves. And when we give something our full attention we will be living for today.