By Linda Cox


1 Timothy 6:17 (KJV) …

[God] giveth us richly all things to enjoy.



Squeak! Squawk! Rattle! Ring! Boink! Mrrrraaaaakkkkkkkk!


It’s truly amazing all the sounds dog toys can make. I was “testing” those sounds in PetSmart, thankful security didn’t escort me out for disturbing the peace. Even the friend who was with me walked away. But I was on a mission—looking for the loudest dog toy I could find to include in the birthday box I was sending to my best friend’s husband. He and I have a competition going about who can send the most obnoxious dog toys to our respective pooches.


I smiled as I thought of “simple things for simple minds.” Yes, indeed. But, then I was reminded—the simple things in life are God’s special gifts to us. They can brighten a day, put a smile on a face, lift our spirits, even help us take that next difficult step.


We should take time every day to enjoy the simple things. Stop and smell that rose. Better, yet, take the time to look at how intricately it is made. Look for a “picture” in the clouds. Listen to a bird sing. Watch a sunset. Skip down the sidewalk. Hug a friend. Savor the taste of ice cream. Squeak a dog toy!


Take a break from the cares of your life, the stressful and fast-paced world you are living in, and enjoy the simple things for just a few moments. God has given them to us to enjoy and I know He is smiling when He sees His children taking the time to enjoy the gifts He gives to us.


And yes, best friend’s hubby, that includes dog toys.


Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a birthday box to pack. Hee, hee, hee.