A Gratitude Moment

When I first moved into my house, I kayaked along the back of the property along Forrest Brook to explore what went beyond my view. What I found was something along the lines of that wonderful row boat scene in the Notebook when Noah and Ally discover a hidden gem complete with overhanging trees, a multitude of birds and a sense of peace and oneness with nature.

That's what I found beyond my view. along Forrest Brook. The tress. The birds. A sense of peace and oneness. But when I looked a little closer, I discovered all sorts of magical things. I saw fairies peeking out from unexpected places, tiny cairns and rock formations placed with care, for all to enjoy. I saw unexpected glittery surprises and  treasures hidden beneath the water. I saw a gnome nestled into the crook of a branch and another in hidden in the grass along the shore. Some things were easily reached with my hand or my paddle. Others were out of reach and carefully placed for maximum enjoyment.

I live in a small town and everyone seems to know everything about what's going on. I asked around and was told that it's a mystery that's been happening for years. Apparently someone or a team of someones have been leaving treasure on Forrest Brook for years. It's something the locals love to paddle to and see what new treasures have been placed there. Some describe tokens they took years ago and still have in their possession today. Some describe visiting on occasion just to see what's been added. Others love when kids visit them on the lake and they can bring them to discover the Forrest Brook treasures.

This morning over coffee, I think I saw the maker of the magic kayaking by quietly with another kayak in tow. It was empty. Perhaps transport for the treasures that had just placed. I got goosebumps and just watched them go by. I'll never tell.

How fun to be in on this simple secret that brings so much joy, delight and a little bit of magic to so many and for so long! Thank you, whoever you are, who passed by silently as I carried my coffee out to the deck early this morning. Thank you for the reminder that it really is about the simple things that bring us joy.

​May the joy you bring to so many others return to you on this beautiful day. 

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