My husband was up before the sunrise on Friday, stoking the fire to begin boiling our maple sap. The sky was overcast and grey, threatening rain. We listened to the sap sputter and pop as it sizzled and rose to overflow, stirring down the boil with a pine bough. It is one of my favorite days of the year, with ample time to ponder the meaning of life. Thirteen hours later, we had our finished product ready to filter and can, four gallons of liquid gold otherwise known as maple syrup. Next time you’re tempted to muscle through the hectic pace of your life, consider slowing down instead. You just might find an opportunity for simple quiet joy…..