Today is my boy’s 5th birthday!  Send him some good vibes!

Not only is it nearly impossible for me to believe that I have a 5 year old son, it is a real mystery to me how I came to be blessed with such a perfect little man.  Being Daddy to Luke and his sisters is the greatest joy of my life, and I am continually blown away by this incredible opportunity.

Most of all, I am thankful…for this life, this family, this immeasurable blessing.  Happy birthday, son.  You’ve made your Daddy a proud, happy man!

So, Sunday was one of those days. And I know why…

Because I slowed down, and forgot about the shadows on my shoulders.

Because I shut up, and listened to the rhythm of a day without obligation.

Because I sang (badly) old, uncool folk songs with a little girl who sings from the bottom of her heart, always.

Because I pretended to be a talking cat.

Because I got a November sunburn in my own back yard.

Because the weather was perfect.

Because Hope is beautiful in the grass.

Because I waded in a farm pond, held a bluegill, gazed into a north Florida creek, and ignored mosquitoes.

Because I spent less than $20, and felt like a rich man.

We may no longer live close to the land, and may never again. But it is still there, waiting for us to return. Do not leave it to suffer alone…

What is it about the Fall? A little dip in the humidity, an unexpectedly early red sunset, a hot, misty bag of boiled peanuts, and I am a kid again. At 59 degrees, something begins to stir within me, and life takes on a fireside glow. Before you know it, we’re seeking out corn mazes, hay rides, pumpkin patches, and boiled peanuts (did I already mention those?). Such was the scene last Saturday at Aplin Farms in Slocomb, AL. For all you Northwest Florida readers, this place is well worth the 60 minute drive. Your little ones will love it. Check out Hope’s myspace page for a slideshow with the inside scoop. It’s way cool with The Frames playing in the background.

Happy Fall…Enjoy the hay ride…