I woke up to the sound of rain and snuggled further under my covers, reminiscing about the simple pleasure of lazy, rainy, days. Enjoying the cooler weather, the sound of rain hitting the window panes, curled up with a warm drink, cozy blanket, and a great book or movie. However that was not to be on my agenda for the day because the boys did not have school and were already beginning to make sounds of boredom and hunger. Breakfast solved the hunger pains and created a false sense of quiet, that I quickly took advantage of as I made my way to the patio with a cup of coffee to enjoy the much needed rain in the Central Valley. The tracking device installed in every mother alerting her offspring that she is currently enjoying alone time brought the children outdoors, but I did not mind the interruption of peace as I saw the awe in their face as I granted permission for them to play in the rain. The youngest ran to tell his older brothers to come jump in the puddles, which they did with such abandonment and delight, I was envious. Reminded me of days past and the joy in the simple life. They did not need TV or video games to be occupied, they played for an hour with one another, using their imagination to make up games. The six year old even mentioned how the rain was good for California because we were in a drought, and how he had missed the rain, serving to restore my faith that he is being well educated. A few minutes later, however, he came to tell me how the homeless were all able to get free showers today if they had some soap. All are inside now but still playing well with each other, as I contemplate what soup or stew I should make on this rare rainy day, and thanking God for reminding me that some days we all just need to Dance in the Rain with the innocence of a child. And just to keep it ‘Real,’ I currently hear the discussion of what video game should be played happening in the playroom, which means an argument will soon ensue as one or two don’t get their way, and the tattle tales begin with that old faithful call of “Mom….. they won’t let me Play……”
