Pleasant Picking

Experiencing the joy of fresh blackberries is like a splash of cool water on hot, playful kids.  This afternoon I was grateful for a tidy house and ready to get a break outside.  I put on my boots, grabbed a big bowl, called the dogs, and headed to the creek.  Juicy blackberries were awaiting me.  Splashing up the creek brought back memories of when my kids were younger.  We don't go to the creek quite as often now.  Instead, I end up coaxing them to go blackberry picking by the creek.  This time I heard the sounds of nature instead of my children's cries of excitement or needs.  It was so peaceful to listen to the gurgle of the water, the wind in the trees, and the dogs feet plodding through the water as I picked.  There were cobwebs here and there, a few bugs, and I've even seen a snake right up by the blackberries.  It looks like a popular spot for critters other than myself.  After a short while I had a nice amount of juicy berries, lightly pricked fingers, and messy hands.  I felt satisfied and eager to make a pie.  I'm grateful for blackberries and picking them in the shade and peace of the creek.