Fresh Air Family Night

Last evening was Jeff's family night so, as usual, he got to use the Celebrate plate, Josiah and I told him why we love him and think he's wonderful, and I cooked Mexican food for dinner--chicken enchiladas this time. One of the things that made last night delightful was our dining experience outside in the pleasant evening air. It's such a small thing really--to eat outside--but what a difference it makes! We are more relaxed, happier, more inclined to linger around the table and talk, more grateful for our surroundings, more aware of the beauty of nature. Sure it takes a little more work to carry everything outside (dishes, food, etc.); but it is so worth it!!! I don't remember eating supper outside very often last summer, but I think we'll be doing a lot of it this year! One of the great things about our patio is that it's on the east side of the house, so by the time suppertime comes, the sun is on the other side of the house and the patio is in the shade. We don't have to put on sunscreen before we eat there--we don't have to wear sunglasses while we're eating--and it's not blazing hot during lazy spring and summer evenings. I'm looking forward to continuing this new tradition we're beginning. :)