a broccoli moment - err ... SPARKLY moment

Do you ever have a moment when you feel like your heart will burst with pure happiness?

I am taking a class and I use an old 3-ring binder my daughter used in high school. It is one of those plain white binders, but she has a creative gene, and had decorated the cover of the notebook. I never really examined it – I just enjoy the colors and designs – and it makes me think of her when I’m slogging away on my class notes – remembering how much she hated school.

I brought the notebook to work with me today, intending to spend a few odd moments reviewing during lunch or breaktime. I took a moment to study the artwork on the cover – feeling the texture – yes, texture – and looking at the “paint” that was used. I supposed it was some kind of funky paint she found in art class.

All kinds of interesting colors – yellow, blue, silver, broccoli (er, I meant SPARKLY) glittery something that looks sort of like the “hair / beard” you arrange on the little toy bald guy – then some polka-dot looking things – pinks, purples, burgundy. Fun. Interesting. Like her.

So, I picked up the phone to call her and tell her I am using this notebook, and ask does she remember making it. She is about to start a ballet class she teaches – and she takes a moment to talk to her mom. Yes, she remembers decorating the notebook. She made it with old half-used bottles of nail polish! Nail polish never came to mind when I looked at that notebook.

Now, WHY does that surprise me? And, WHY does it make me smile? And, WHY do I take such joy in her? My little chick – just taking pleasure in what God has done …