Quiet Moments

by Dave

When I was younger, still in single digit years, there were instances I didn't know what to do with all the free time I had.  Tom and Jennifer were still at school and I was left to my own devices.  I would constantly ask mom what I should do.  She would throw out various thoughts like why don't you draw?  How about read a book? or play outside?

Well, one afternoon she suggested a jigsaw puzzle.  Brilliant.  Whenever I see a jigsaw puzzle in a store these days, or actually put one together, I remember all the family trips to different lodges or the condo we had in New Hampshire and what a great family activity it was.

I couldn't tell you what puzzle I was working on on this particular day but I was working on it so intently that mom stopped what she was doing in the kitchen and came in to help.

Were were so engrossed by the challenge that a while later I noticed a flickering light in the kitchen.  Mom turned around and saw the pan on the stove was on fire.  I was in a state of shock but Mom was Mom and put the fire out.  She saved the day and the kitchen. 

It's moments like these that stick in my memory the most.  Those quiet times working on a puzzle or writing Christmas cards in the dining room or relaxing by the fire sipping hot chocolate.  Of course Mom would be drinking tea.