Sometimes magic happens. After some unseasonably hot, dry days, today was clear, cool, perfect. We had a busy grooming schedule, but the last customer of the day, with two Standard Poodles, didn't show up. I hate to admit I wasn't sad. We cleaned the studio and hatched a plan. The Owlet (3 1/2) had been asking to go out on my beloved kayak with me.
Snuggled against me, she leaned left, trailing her wee fingers in the water. "Are there mermaids here? Dolphins?" We paddled to a dock and startled a cormorant, who half flew, half water-walked away from us. We watched it with delight. I rowed back to the beach to meet her mama and baby sister. The Owlet nimbly climbed out onto the rocky shore, and the Cygnet plopped into my lap. She grabbed for the paddle, "I help!" Her wee hands joined mine, and we swept through the water happily.
Kayaking is a special joy for me. I love the sights, sounds, scents, and sensations. To share it with the grands was an unexpected delight. Their tiny bodies snuggled close to me as we rocked on the water, witnessing fish leaping, turtles paddling, birds taking flight. "Lilies!" The Owlet cried as we passed through a patch of them bobbing on the blue.
Back in the truck and heading home alone, one of my favorite songs came on. "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield.
"Release your inhibitionsFeel the rain on your skinNo one else can feel it for youOnly you can let it inNo one else, no one elseCan speak the words on your lipsDrench yourself in words unspokenLive your life with arms wide openToday is where your book beginsThe rest is still unwritten"
I never could have imagined sharing my love of kayaking with wee girls. Their tiny hands splayed on my thighs, their glee in being on a Maine lake with their Lovie readily apparent. They were off on a brand-new adventure, secure in the knowledge that I would keep them safe. I was living life with arms wide open. Every day, my book begins. I can't wait to see what the unwritten future holds.
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