My Saturday began with the kind of luxurious treat that warms the soul: breakfast in bed, complete with fluffy pancakes and a perfect cup of tea, lovingly brought to me by my daughter.
It was absolutely heavenly, but as I savored each bite, a little realization bubbled up. My step count was a measly 35, accumulated only by a quick trip to answer nature’s call! It was already late morning, and my body was craving its usual active rhythm.
As soon as I was up, my daughter had a vital mission for me: naming one of their new aquarium fish. She pointed out a beautiful little black widow skirt tetra – all shimmery silver with striking black stripes and a translucent tail. I found myself drawn in, quietly watching it glide effortlessly from side to side. I captured its grace on video and in a few pictures.
Finally, I looked up to meet my daughter’s eager gaze. “So, what’s her name?” she chirped, practically bouncing with anticipation. “I’ll let you know after my walk,” I replied, a knowing smile spreading across my face. And with that, I set off!
My plan wasn’t just about accumulating steps; it was about soaking in the ambient music of the outdoors. I headed for three different parks, intending simply to sit on a bench in each and absorb the environment.
I was particularly looking forward to the symphony of sounds: the bright laughter of children, the soft thud of running feet on grass, the curious hum of insects buzzing close by, the gentle creak of swings, the whoosh of fabric on slides, the silent whisper of the breeze, and even the rhythmic click of my keypad as I drafted this very story.
At the parks, I heard the delicate trickle of water from behind a nearby fence. My ears caught the eager puff and pant of a dog in pursuit of a ball and the secret chirping of birds that seemed perfectly camouflaged among the surrounding trees.
Dry leaves skittered and bounced lightly across the path, pushed by an unseen current, and beneath my shoe, one offered a satisfying crisp crunch. Then, the happy whir of bicycle wheels rolled past, reminding me of the simple joys of a summer’s day.
Seventeen thousand, two hundred and sixty-nine steps later, I was back at my front door. Mission accomplished! My mind drifted back to my very first task of the day – that beautiful fish waiting patiently for her name.
Standing by the aquarium once more, I raised my glass of cold milk in a celebratory toast. “And we shall call her Zebra!” I announced. Her distinctive black stripes instantly reminded me of all the zebra crossings I encounter on my walks, and now, those crossings will always bring her to mind.
With a deeply contented grin, I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d just become a godmother to little Zebra, who I’ll fondly call Zeb.
This magical Saturday underscored that joy can be found in the simple act of choosing to engage, to move, embracing the journey, one step – and one fish-naming adventure at a time. When we listen to its little nudges, life leads us to delight.
Mindful Miles 
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