What is Needed

I finally went out fishing for trout.  I only had a couple of hours since I had the kids with me.  But overall I found a productive spot and I caught about 8 stocked rainbows and 3 massive 12 to 13 inch yellow perch.  The kids didn’t catch anything, they were more into running around and playing alongside the streams.  I also saw someone possible catch and release a huge yellow perch that looked about 3 lbs, which would break the PA state record.  They didn’t have a scale on them but took a measurement of the length which was 16.5 inches.  This behemoth had a belly, most likely filled with eggs.  I will not reveal this spot, because it has been a secret spot for me for a long time, and I can se it is now starting to get pressured.  But I will be back there very soon to try and get that massive yellow perch. 
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But it was so nice to finally get out, even if it was only for a couple of hours.  It was nice to pick up the kids, see a bit of cloudy skies, before the rain came down.  I knew that air temp, weather condition and time of day might be the best opportunity to get a heap of fish, and it did not disappoint! 

It’s been a few weeks since I was able to get out and fish.  I think the last time I was able to go out was early March at Glendale, where I caught largemouth bass.  But today felt rejuvenating.  It felt refreshing, and I need to remember that I that I need to take time out of my day to enjoy some extracurricular activities, even if I am busy. 

The fact is that I am always busy, and that there is always something to do.  But I know that taking a break is necessary.  And honestly by breaks are all about taking care of the kids, which isn’t much of a break!  But yesterday, fishing and playing with the kids streamside, and rolling down hills was so nice.  It was almost like God watching over us and providing us the things in nature to provide for the entertainment. 

The kids and I ate peanut butter sandwiches and it has been a long time since I had one of those.  I felt like a kid, with other kids and not a father telling them to watch out, be careful and don’t do that.  It was a relief, and I cannot be ever more thankful for having this time.

I really just wanted to share this story to tell you all it is important to never pass on these moments.  And sometimes these moments of serenity, excitement, and joy come to a surprise and can be unexpected.  Sometimes, it starts with a feeling, something that you are just compelled to do, not ever expecting what is going to happen next.  I think this is how God provides for us.  When our days, weeks, and months feel so overwhelming, sometimes a break in the schedule is needed.  Sometimes, a sporadic action is the motivation needed to get through the week.  Sometimes, all we need is a bit of fishing, peanut butter sandwiches, rolling down hills, and playing by the stream to get us back to feeling that life is more enjoyable than we can ever imagine.