Children have a knack for noticing the small things that adults overlook or don’t take the time to see. While I’ve always admired the beauty of the ocean on previous beach trips, I somehow see things differently as a mom.

In my pre-children beach trips, I spent most of my time lounging in a beach chair. I’d read a book or magazine, nap in the sun, or talk with others.

Now that I have children, I don’t bother taking a beach chair because I know I’ll never have the time to sit in it. Three small children keep me running all the time, but I love how my children make me view God’s creation with a whole new set of eyes.

Our family vacation last week marked Siler’s first trip to the beach. My curious eleven-month-old explored the shore with excitement. A typical boy, he enjoyed getting dirty and pressing his hands and feet in the sand. He probably even ate a tablespoon or two of sand in the process. I’ve never understood why babies will refuse to taste some foods but will gladly shove a fist of gritty sand into their mouths.

Siler noticed every small seashell in the sand, and he would have eaten them if I hadn’t been there to stop him.

I can’t tell you the last time I really looked at seashells on the beach, noticing the beautiful blends of colors and designs. Before having children, I probably would have stepped over these shells on my way to take a dip in the ocean, not even giving them a second thought or glance.

My baby boy also did some bird watching on the beach. Siler carefully observed a flock of seagulls and crawled with great gusto in an attempt to catch one. I think in his little baby mind, he actually thought he had a shot. I had to admire his determination. Observing Siler as he watched and interacted with the seagulls brought a smile to my face.

Pre-kids I would have been more annoyed with the seagulls hovering around me. I’ve held a grudge against seagulls ever since one pooped on my head at the beach when I was in high school. I’m not making that up. My friend, Rhea, and her sister, Rebekah, were witnesses to the horrendous act.

The wonderful thing about little ones is they approach everything with new eyes and see the wonder and beauty of God’s creation. They marvel at the fine details of nature. As adults, we have tunnel vision. We become so wrapped up in routine, possessions and technology that we often fail to admire the beautiful backdrop that God has designed for us to enjoy.

When we do take the time to notice what’s around us, we see small, everyday miracles. I think that probably makes God smile and enjoy watching us as much as I enjoyed watching my little boy on the beach.

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