My Very Special 4th

I've missed my family and the life I had growing up in my hometown. My parents' house is over 100 years old with tall ceilings and crown molding galore. My childhood room is like a vortex of silence. The sleep I've had the past two days was more like a coma.

I simply love watching all 1500 people come out and put on their little parade. There were logging trucks with banners, the local Buddhists playing music on bongos, all the princesses practicing their waves and tractors operated by 8 year olds. Everyone moves at a slow pace and are open, cracking jokes on the fly. Little stands of fireworks and lemonade were nestled in the moderately sized park.

But, what I really enjoyed during that time, was painting the faces of small children. I have to admit my mothers' set up is quite amazing. The paints were perfect in this weather. And what I really get a kick out of is the kids faces as they're being painted. They slip into a slight daze and on several occasions will fall asleep. I talk lowly and quietly to them as I paint away, similar to how I calm nervous dogs. They nod quietly or smile gently. The exchange of energy is so enlightening. The looks on their faces as they gaze at their reflection in the mirror and the wowed exclamations from their families, just lifts the spirits.

It's easy to go home and fall into that ease and comfort. My family understands and accepts me in a way that I've never found elsewhere. My dad watched his car races and my mom made hamburgers in the kitchen. The rest of the family filtered in and out throughout the day and there were hugs all around.

I feel lucky to have grown up in such a great family and I intend to touch base with this environment more frequently.