Let's Keep Playing

Isn’t it easy for the ho-humness demands of daily life to take us to the town of Grumpydom! Well, not on my watch! I’m steering clear of that dreary place! You'll find me on the joy-of-life express, and I want you to hop aboard with me.

So many folks are caught up in the humdrum of daily routines, completely neglecting the playful child hidden within. They go through life without pausing to smell the roses, missing out on the wide-eyed wonder they once had.

Then there are the joyful rebels among us who cling to that spark of youthful delight, making every day a celebration of life. I choose to be one of these merry souls.

Thank heavens for my husband Carl, the captain of laughter and adventure! On a recent trip to Lubbock for a family wedding, he whisked us away on a spontaneous detour to Prairie Dog Town.

Admittedly, his daughter and I weren’t thrilled at first. But upon arriving, our skepticism turned to sheer amazement. Prairie dogs scampered about, jumping in and out of their burrows.

Some stood on their hind legs, inviting us to join their merry frolic -- though, cleverly, they stay just beyond the reach of sightseers.

Prairie Dog Town sprouted up in Mackenzie Park in the 1930s, thanks to the Clapp Family. Starting with just four furry friends and two burrows, it became the first sanctuary of its kind. Mr. Clapp, forever the Mayor of Prairie Dog Town, knew a thing or two about living joyfully.

I am blessed with a husband whose humor fills our days with laughter and lots of adventures. We seize every moment, committed to living as though each day were our last. Life is here to be celebrated, no matter the ups and downs we might face.

Despite our share of heartaches, pains, loss of loved ones, and other challenges, we refuse to let those “bumps in the road” dampen our spirits. We continue to embrace childlike joy and curiosity.

I love the “Jesus” portrayed in "The Chosen" series. He often teases his disciples, laughs at their antics and even takes time out to encourage and teach them about life and loving each other.

Let’s purpose to laugh more, play more, and live more with joy and wonder. After all, we only get one shot at this beautiful adventure. Let’s make it count!

Jesus said: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”