Wonder

December 4 – Wonder.
How did you cultivate a sense of wonder in your life this year? (Author: Jeffrey Davis)

I looked up wonder in the dictionary:

- cause of astonishment or admiration : marvel
- miracle
-the quality of exciting amazed admiration
- rapt attention or astonishment at something awesomely mysterious or new to one's experience
- a feeling of doubt or uncertainty

I like the "rapt attention or astonishment at something awesomely mysterious or new to one's experience" definition. This year I worked to cultivate wonder in my life and my children's lives by taking them on adventures - mostly in the summer. I plan to do this every summer - this year my favorite was going to Fort Edmonton Park. Taking the steam engine, walking around the park and looking at all the old buildings, giving Joel the opportunity to ride a horse. That was my favorite part. The first time we went, he got on the horse and then after about 2 minutes the handler brought him back - he was too scared. When we got back to Grandma's house he started asking to go horseback riding again. All weekend actually. So, on Monday morning, I packed up the three kids and went back (this time with no Aunties or Grandma) and he did it. It was WONDERFUL to see him conquer his fear, and ride the horse! His eyes were shining and he couldn't stop talking about it for the rest of the trip.