We have another runner in the family.  It's still not me. This time it's not long distance either, but track. It's been a lot of fun to watch his events.  It's like a three ring circus in a good way.  Something is happening both on the track and inside the field at any given time.

I wasn't a big sports fan or participant in school but I have come to really value what it offers our kids.  More than competition and teamwork, which are also great, it is fresh air, lots of tiring exercise, time away from screens.  It fits in well with our "just go outside" outlook. Stressed?  Go outside awhile.  Run it off.  Get a change of scenery.  Most things look better afterwards. 

Some afternoon fun with their friends. Maybe it works, maybe not. So far they have loved watching the seeds sprout at least.  I will be watching a patch in the yard since the dog walked through and upended one tray.  We may or may not see some runaway zinnias this summer. : ) 

"Give the children an opportunity to make a garden.  Let them grow what they will.  It matters less that they grow good plants than that they try for themselves."

– Liberty Hyde Bailey

"Glorious St. Joseph, model of all who are devoted to labor, obtain for me the grace to work in the spirit of penance in expiation of my many sins; to work conscientiously by placing love of duty above my inclinations; to gratefully and joyously deem it an honor to employ and to develop by labor the gifts I have received from God, to work methodically, peacefully, and in moderation and patience, without ever shrinking from it through weariness or difficulty to work; above all, with purity of intention and unselfishness, having unceasingly before my eyes death and the account I have to render of time lost, talents unused, good not done, and vain complacency in success, so baneful to the work of God. All for Jesus, all for Mary, all to imitate thee, O patriarch St. Joseph! This shall be my motto for life and eternity."

– St Joseph the Worker Prayer

When I read this prayer for the feast day today it painted such a convicting picture of how to apply ourselves to our daily work, whether at home or away. It is arguably even more essential to approach work done at home and for our family with those virtues as our guide. 

Here's to a peaceful, productive week!