Dirty Little Hands

We've really been pushing the handwashing in our house lately because, well, kids are gross and total germ magnets. But here's the thing - I don't always want my kids to wash their hands. I love seeing the paint, the dirt, the marker smudges, the Fig Newton goo...all of it. When I see their dirty little hands it's like a snapshot of all the fun they've had that day. It let's me know that they were out there really living, not just sitting in a super-sterile bubble. I'm not suggesting we do away with handwashing. In fact, I'd be down for a double-squirt of hand soap after each potty training experience. (So gross.) I am suggesting though that we stop to smell the roses. Take a second to look at those dirty little hands and smile when you realize how much fun was had getting them all mucked up.

When's the last time you had lots of dirt under your nails?

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” - John Muir

If you have the opportunity, go outside today and touch the ground with your bare hands or feet. Take a breath and remember that we're all connected to something much bigger than ourselves.