Labor Day weekend I had the chance to spend picnic time with my extended family in a small–but wonderful–park smack dab in the middle of the big city I call my home town.  (Other people sometimes call it the sprawling, independent region of Northern Virginia.)  Why wonderful?  Because it was graced with amazing trees.  Old trees.  Trees that created a canopy so wonderfully full and sun-dappled that I didn’t have to use sunscreen on the kids ALL DAY LONG.  Trees and leaves and grass and dirt and walnuts and acorns and all that amazing touch-taste-see nature that brings out the very best in picnik-y afternoons.

I am thankful for tree trunks bigger than 6 year old boys!  “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” (Psalms 1:3)

My nephew, Bubba (no, that's not his real name!). September 2010.

I am thankful for kid-sized forts (and cousins to fill them!) that make themselves with no help whatsoever from the Mama.  “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in him will I trust.” (Pslams 91:1-2)

This little secret garden discovery occupied hours of their day!

And I am thankful for the chance to wander aimlessly through the bustling farmers’ market before our picnic.  To see the colors…smell fresh food with that earthy hint of healthy dirt to it…and marvel and how amazingly blessed we are to have access to such overwhelming bounty.  “For he satisfieth the long soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.” (Psalms 107:9)

Falls Church Farmers' Market. September 2010.

Look at those amazing radishes! September 2010.

For more Thankful on a Thursday posts, check out The Tarr Pit, The McGlothin Family Nest, and The Outdoor Wife.  And if you’re feeling thankful, be sure to link up your own post to share!