Simple Pleasures

Life is good. My sister is visiting. Yep, that’s her on the left. She flew in from Sweden on Tuesday and is staying for nine days. It’s not enough, but it’s better than nothing. :)

Today, I just wanted to share some highlights from a marvelously pleasurable day.

It started off with sleeping in followed by a workout session with my hubby. After showers and post-workout snacks, we (me, husband, daughter & sister) headed over to Luther College where my husband teaches in the Religion department. We took pictures with Martin Luther holding a pumpkin, browsed the art building, and finally stopped by the bookstore. I was delighted to find a young readers version of the Omnivore’s Dilemma – my child will be reading that.

My sister and I then proceeded to the local co-op for lunch. We had a splendid (and cheap!) meal and continuously reminded each other to set our silverware down between each bite and really savor the food.

When we could no longer handle the heat from the sun shining in through the window, we stepped outside for some window shopping. Decorah, IA has the cutest little downtown with lots of neat shops. My sister, being from Sweden, was especially fascinated by the Scandinavian gift shop. (Decorah is a Norwegian settlement and it’s a BIG DEAL…)

The best part about window shopping: It’s free!

When we finished walking up and down the main street, we snuck into a cozy, locally-owned cafe called Java John’s for some hot chocolate. We sat in their reading room, which has comfy chairs and couches, perfect for snuggling up with a good book or for a chat with a dear sister.

When we hit mid-afternoon, we decided it was time to move. Time for some exercise! We drove out to the edge of town where there is a park with a wonderful ascent up to a ridge where you can see all across town. We climbed lots of stony stair steps to get to the top (and interrupted some lovebirds in the process). Once we reached the summit, we walked across the ridge until the path ended. The air was just cold enough and so refreshing. We threw leaves at each other and let out inhibition-free “fall screams.”

Nature is good for the soul.

Today is a good reminder that the best things in life are free. Walks, conversation, music, art, running, and breathing fall air. Your mom was on to something when she said “Go out and play!”

Like what you read? Pass on the goodness!