This is the third in my five part series on my "New Decade" resolutions.

"Stop and smell the roses" may seem trite but bear with me. I tried an experiment this past summer. My backyard isn't what you would call inviting for sitting outside - no deck, no patio. But I decided I needed to spend time out there. I bought a couple of Adirondack chairs and proceeded to spend an hour outside nearly every night after work and in the mornings and evenings on the weekend.

Okay, not my back yard but give me some poetic license

It was wonderful. I thought I might read or listen to music but I found the most joy in sitting with the sun on my face watching the dogs play in the yard. It was one of the best things I did in years.

Stopping and smelling the roses means living in the moment. My pastor had a sermon this summer about passing your life by living for the weekend or living for your annual vacation. I remember all those milestones growing up that I looked forward to as a child. It started with being tall enough for the amusement park ride, getting your driver's license, turning 21, or when you get married or have children.

A bench with a view - like this spot at York River State Park

But how much more delicious is it to just enjoy each day as it comes: good or not so good. Because otherwise you get to that magic retirement age and look back and realize you wished away your life.

Morning at Natural Tunnel State Park

Taking pleasure in simple things is also amazingly economical. Sunsets and sunrises are free. Appreciating the beauty around you - nature of course, but also children playing, people helping other people - is also free. In a world of social media trolls and haters you might have to look a little harder but those sweet moments of life are all around you if you only let yourself notice them.

Bluebells at Shenandoah River

Working for Virginia State Parks, I get to visit our wonderful parks often. Yes, I am nearly always working. But it is impossible to drive into Hungry Mother or Shenandoah River without the beauty of nature hitting you square in the face. Some of my favorite times on overnight trips are sitting on the deck of the cabin, enjoying the evening with co-workers or alone: immersing myself in the present.

Like this cabin at Natural Tunnel State Park

Start your New Year - this New Decade - with people you love. Consider visiting one of our parks and participating in a First Day Hike. You will be well on your way to finding the beauty in the present.

Come back tomorrow for resolution #4.