Recapturing Joy

    An otter swam back and forth, back and forth, across its pool. My parents and I watched from behind a railing. So did other people. A happy vibe filled the air.
   When I was growing up, sometimes Mom and Dad would us kids somewhere fun. We'd swim at Nantasket Beach. Visit a zoo. Eat popcorn inside a movie theater.
   Those were simple pleasures. Yet they felt special. Why? Because they broke up the routine of home.
   Mom and Dad can't drive anymore. Their health is shaky. Now I take them on outings.
   Last Sunday we visited a nature center. That otter entertained us. Admission was free.
   It's easy and cheap to recapture the simple joys of childhood. All that's required is a willingness to go somewhere different. Not a far away place, or an expensive place, just a different place.