I probably write this post at the end of every summer. And I’m pretty sure I feel even more strongly every single year.

This is my activity where my phone and any other distractions have no choice but to be left behind.

I notice their smooth skin and little fingers and amazing eyelashes.

I notice how they are learning how to get along and how it’s more fun without the fighting and the arguing.

I notice how he stares at airplanes until they become a tiny dot far away in the blue sky. I wonder if he will become a pilot like both his great grandfathers.

I notice.

I notice things that I would probably never notice unless every single distraction – the phone, tidying, laundry, cooking the next thing – everything is put away.

For me, it is swimming. For you, maybe it is art or a hike or cooking. Find something. Find something that helps you notice them.