Every once in awhile, I’m lucky enough to keep all my plates spinning in the air. Last night was one of those times. One of those times when everything seems a-okay and all (or most) is right with the world – at least my familial world.  

We arrived home from St. Louis last night with our sleep-away camper in tow. Boy, four weeks really fly by without any offspring to look after! My two adult children (ages 20 & 23) and their fairly significant others made it a point to be there to welcome our youngest family member home. The house felt “balanced” in a way that can only happen when all your children are safe at home – no matter how old they are!

My oldest brought home Chinese food and my only daughter brought her little brother’s belated birthday gift. Over General Tso’s chicken and fried rice, we listened to tales of Logan’s experiences at camp. He had the floor and his family’s undivided attention. He was surrounded by the people who love him most in the world – and who he loves most.

As I looked around the table, at each one of their beautiful faces, I made a mental note to remember the moment. Perhaps to an outside observer, nothing particularly noteworthy unfolded. To me, however, the stars were aligned, everything I needed surrounding that kitchen table, and nothing else right then mattered. After a silent moment of gratitude, I permanently etched that scene in my mind, so I can call upon it during those moments that aren’t exactly Kodak ones.