FARMER’S MARKET FUN

I pulled up the hood of my jacket and exited the car in a torrential downpour. As soon as I made it to the covered area, the rain let up. My Saturdays are busy and regimented. So, I was in a hurry to gather farm-fresh goodies and get going. But this Saturday, the parking lot was flooded. A breeze created waves in an asphalt lake. A child was waltzing through the deep puddle, clad in tall rubber boots. Is there anything more captivating than a child being a child? Exploring his world?

A tinge of jealousy struck me, as I turned to go. I stopped short and told myself, “For once, I’m going to enjoy this moment, even if my shoes get soaked. Maybe I could snap a picture of a child enjoying the giant puddle?” When I was his age, I loved dancing in the rain and splashing in puddles. The fond memory is still there, appearing in dreams—where arthritic limbs whirl free again.

I pivoted back to the asphalt-pond and asked the boy if I could take his picture. He stood like a statue, until I raised my arms and grinned. He mirrored my gesture, and I captured his joy with my smartphone camera. In a heartbeat, the moment passed.

Then a toddler caught my attention. He nibbled a treat, contemplating his future in concentric circles of joy. 

These two children made my day. Showing the parents, the pics of their puddle-loving children, I hope, made theirs as well.

I returned home with a warm memory—proud of myself for taking time to 'stop and smell the roses'—not to mention, a colorful bounty of tasty greens, tomatoes and honey.