Saving Snails

My lovely family was blessed enough to enjoy the first week of summer break at Disneyworld. Riding coasters, enjoying performances, and dodging torrential rainstorms filled our week. But, of all the memories made, sometimes, the more innocent moments take center stage.

After full days of exploring the different parks, my better half and I most nights wrapped up with a stroll around the resort. These themed resorts showcased adorable visual representations of many timeless classics. We thoroughly enjoyed walking around a lake that bordered a few of these resorts. As they often do, our love of nature took over and relaxing end-of-the-night strolls evolved into discussions on the plants we noticed and searches for toads and other wildlife. Besides finding what appeared to be a grasshopper the size of my hand, we saw ornate flowers, cute little lizards, and plenty of snails. These slippery little guys were inching their way across the concrete paths and manicured landscaping throughout the resort.

When we talked to our oldest (and most experienced budding naturalist), she insisted on joining us for our next late night trek. This walk was certainly the shortest walk of the week in terms of distance, but not because of our child’s tired legs. The shorter distance was due to her focus on saving snails from a certainly crushing end of life scenario. Her respect and appreciation of nature is admirable and her love of critters great and small os something we can aspire to emulate now and for generations to come. And when all is said and done, I will remember the rides and the music. . .but I’ll cherish saving the snails.