How to create some memorable small moments that are healthy, too.

3/10/2015

The sun had already peeped above the horizon but still hid sulkily behind the curtain of grey clouds. The waves lipped the beach and slid up the sand towards the lone fisherman, surrounded by his bevy of watchful seagulls. They stood quietly, almost without moving, with only an occasional gull moving impatiently or snapping at its closest neighbour.

Two figures followed the edge of the shoreline towards the fisherman, their shoulders hunched against the soft but icy morning breeze. The smaller figure danced excitedly just beyond the reach of the waves.

"Here's one," she called. "A 'ittle one. Can I heep it for my hollection, Daddy?"

He smiled and held out his hand for the shell before slipping it into his pocket. Dakotah patted his pocket and smiled happily as the shells chinked softly.

One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach.

Take a moment to enjoy a morning walk

We live very close to the beach and there's something very soothing and restful about walking along the beach, especially early in the morning before it's too hot. It's a wonderful way to begin a day and everyone seems to handle the difficulties of the day with greater patience. Sometimes, we've planned ahead and eaten breakfast at one of the picnic areas located along the foreshore.

Real benefits

Not only is it really fun, it's a healthy way to begin a day. Authorities have noted that engaging children in some form of exercise before they begin their school day has very positive benefits. Research indicates that the more physically active children are, the better they perform academically. And I know walking is a great form of exercise for me, too.

But, despite that, it's amazing how rarely we do actually take the opportunity to walk there early morning. We're always rushing somewhere or too busy; it's too much effort or we sleep in.

Note it on your calendar now

Why not plan now to enjoy a small moment one morning this week? Go alone or take your kids or grandkids along for a morning walk. You'll start the day well, build some beautiful memories, and you'll improve your health. Take a photo while you're there.. I'll explain more in tomorrow's article.

Maybe you don't live near a beach. But an early morning walk with your kids or grandkids at your local park is just as much fun. And, by all means, spend some time collecting shells, or leaves, or stones or seedpods. Limit each child; tell them they can keep their favourite 2 or 3.

I've included a pdf with couple of seashells for you to download and print. Cut them out and adhere them to your calendar as a visual reminder to go for a morning walk.

Let's live in these small moments and make them so beautiful that they will be worth remembering.