I went for a bicycle ride tonight. I followed a winding country road through farm land and away from the traffic. I could see the first hints of autumn in the trees. A crisp breeze carried the sweet green smell of the fresh cut field and the slightest hint of cow, which isn't as bad as one would think.

I came upon a house where two little girls were playing out in the yard. As I approached I noticed in my rear view mirror that there was a vehicle slowly coming up behind me. I figured they were giving me a wide berth since it was a narrow road. At the same time I realized the driver was pulling into the driveway the little girls noticed it too. “Daddy daddy!” they said with big smiles on their faces and voices caught in their throats. Genuine excitement.

It’s always nice to witness a scene like this, so close and yet so far removed, unnoticed by all involved. It made me happy to see innocent joy. It also made me a little sad to wonder what it must feel like to be on the receiving end and to realize that I never will.

It sure was a nice moment though.