paradise and angel wings

He was just as happy as I was about an evening trip to the beach. He was looking forward to splashing and riding his boogie board and probably the fresh, unopened bag of Doritos. My own expectations were hardly more than the relaxation that comes from watching the waves roll in and keeping my eyes on the changing sky... hoping for a spectacular sunset. The sun was hiding behind many a cloud, and the sky was not promising anything. But I had my toes dug deep into the sand and just breathing in the sea air brings its own sort of peace. That, and watching the sea gently roll in and smooth the sand in a steady rhythm. I quickly came to the conclusion that spectacular sunset or not, this was right where I needed to be. Sister at my side, and Camden laughing with his cousins.
As we let the troubles of the day be cast out, the peace settled in.
And the real fun began...

Like little girls who don't realize that the 5 second rule does not apply at the beach. But she really loves her sweets and the sand didn't hinder her love of the frosting inside the oreo.

And boys sledding... Florida style.

As the sun was falling into the sea, we hunted shells on the shoreline... searching for angel wings...

As her Mama placed one in each hand, she declared One for me and one for you! Tina pressed her to find one for Auntie, but she assured her that it wasn't going to happen. Even when she was told that Auntie collects angels. And so it went... me, finding my own and giggling as I egged her on.
Who found this one?
Me.
Who's is it?
Mine.
Who picked it up out of the sand?
Me.
All the while it was in my hand... and it had me laughing. Because she is not my daughter. I did let her talked me into putting our angel wings in her bucket...

That gray blue sky turned magnificent all at once... and again I am reminded of God's hand, and the beauty He gifts us. And how much more it means to me when I have stashed all expectations away. It was hard to pull myself from the sky last night... it beckoned me back time and again for one last picture. And As I drove into the darkness, His light stayed alive in my soul...