The smallest, simplest acts can be extremely impactful when given with heartfelt love for others. I profoundly experienced it this past weekend when my spouse’s nephew and partner came by with their four children for a late afternoon barbecue, then sparked our joie de vivre through the placement of tiny plastic ducks throughout the house. The experience put broad smiles on our faces as we continue to find the colorful little critters in nooks and crannies everywhere.
I was sitting on our front porch when they arrived. The children often effuse positive energy, even when life has been tough, and today was no exception. Their mother is the source of that. It is in her nature, and it has transferred admirably to her children. It rubs off on us as well and makes us feel fortunate to have all of them in our lives.
They approached our house, strutting down the sidewalk in a similar manner as the Beatles appear on the Abbey Road cover. I made a quick survey in search of an out-of-step “Paul”, but they were all in stride.
There was another observation to make. Despite having seen all of them recently, they all seemed, well, older. Not dramatically, but markedly. Each brandished a flair that was uniquely theirs. The eldest, a girl, is starting her junior year of high school, and she brandished the swagger that sixteen brings. The two brothers behind her have morphed into their distinct, wonderful personalities, as the caboose, a spry second grader, trots along in her merry way.
Despite being exhausted from a long, hot day at the beach, they all greeted us with hugs before accepting our offer of cool drinks. We all hung out in the house and the shade while we caught up with each other, then we all drifted into the backyard. Everybody helping to take the food out, where diverse conversations awaited us.
It was all great fun, but eventually the day’s activities and school tomorrow meant it was time to leave. We hugged individually, said our goodbyes collectively, and waved goodbye with tired smiles. When I returned to the house, I came across a small plastic duck on the side of our china hutch. I thought little of it, assuming someone had found the trinket from a past party, and left it there.
The next morning proved otherwise, starting with a similar duck in a windowsill bottle. Then there was a duck in the cotton ball dispenser, and one in the medicine cabinet. Side table, picture frame, and bookcase followed. By now, it was obvious. These fun children had deposited little plastic ducks throughout the house, each one transferring a smile to our lips and gratitude for knowing such loving and playful people.
For me, it brought back memories of Easter eggs and candy hunts. We used to hide plentiful amounts around the house for our children to find, as our parents had done for us. The craftier we tried to be with our hiding locations, the more that weren’t found nor remembered increased. Some turned up during routine house cleaning, with the balance made their presence known during deep cleaning before Christmas. Not surprisingly, those were not in the best condition.
It was a full circle moment, connecting threads of the past with the joys of the present. I wonder if they will share this fun with children they may have, and pass along the simple pleasures that keep life special.
(All images are property of the author. The ducks are adopted, and may find there way to a new home someday.)