Its the first day of spring, I've been living alone for a year now, and
i've noticed a couple things about myself. During the first couple weeks
there wasnt much money for food (you know the deal - "Rent Money" or
"McDonalds") and after eating alot of rice & beans, the tastes of other
food became more noticable, more intense. Fruit became a delight - a
sweet taste to relish.

I dont have much "physical" contact with people, as you'd expect. But,
what I didnt expect was how "noticable" the sensation becomes. When I
shake someone's hand, I notice if their hand feels warm, fleshy, or
bony. I notice if the shake is firm, over-done, or wimpy.

I also notice when I accidentally touch someone. On the train a lady sat
next to me, fell asleep, and her leg flopped against mine. Wouldnt have
even thought of it before - but, impossible not to notice now. Wasnt
even 'sexual', just 'noticable'.

But the most intense sensation of presence is when I see my girls. I
normally see them once/twice a week. I was pushing my 3yr old on the
swing today, and I've heard her laugh a thousand times, but, today it
just seemed like the 1st day. Her bright-eyes and wide smile lingered in
my thoughts for the rest of the day. When I held her I noticed the
smallness of her, and realized it wont be much longer that she'll be so
easy to carry. My other daughter, a 5yr old, went out of her way to get
me a single cookie. I noticed the extra effort on her part. Later, when
we were wrestling I noticed the sound of her heartbeat. I also noticed
the "smart-azz" look in her eyes, and realized where she gets it from
(me!).

In a small way it gives me an insight to the ascetic's mind set. Why
would anyone deny themselves basic comforts of life? Because you become
numb to it when its constant and overwhelming, but, it becomes sweet and
unforgettable when its infrequent.

At least it was WARM out today.

Warmth is very significant...at least to me. Warmth is so soothing; it
represents serenity and comfort. And if I'm serene, then I'm
happy.

great thoughts and warm wishes when your girls get older you lose some
of the warmth. i would give my arm and leg to have them little again!
mine are 10 and 12 no more just joy and laughter alot of why and smart
thinking!!!