Stripes at my back, my heart on my sleeve.

Today’s Photohunt Theme: “Stripes”

my favorite stripes in a warm time
run up behind me in a line
I lay back and close my eyes
the time of solace and rest flies

quite soon I hear the little feet
marking out a quick-paced beat
a giggling is drawing near
the favorite sound my ears could hear

my eyes open and see his face
filling up my eye-view space
he’s grinning, asking to join me
I reach out, pull him up quickly

now a different kind of peace unfolds
of tickling, laughter, hugs and holds
and just as rest can make me whole
this connection refuels my soul.

Remembering, to remain grounded.

On Wednesday (9/10) John reminded me what day was about to be upon us. I was totally taken by surprise. I have allowed myself to get so wrapped up in commitments, tasks, schedules and deadlines that I forget to notice things like that.

I forgot it was about to be 9/11.

John and I spent a little time remembering where we were, how we found out, how we felt.

We remembered who we were back then and how that moment, when we were truly faced with our vulnerability as a nation and a people, changed us in ways both large and small.

As awful as it seems, I really never want to forget the way I felt that day, and during the days that followed. I want to remember the horror and the insecurity, the sadness and disbelief.

Why? So that I can appreciate each day more fully. So that no matter how many deadlines there are, I am patently aware of the blessing that is the day behind me, the day I am in, and the day just ahead of me.

Aware enough that if I never make it to that next day, I could still be happy I experienced the now to the fullest.

Have you reflected today on how you’ve changed since 9/11? How do you feel on this anniversary? Did the event touch you only distantly, or did it smack you close to home?

Here’s hoping you find peace on this day.

photo by Jayel Aharem

I highly recommend the closet.

 

13 Ways the mother of a Toddler can get some time to herself.

1. I’ve heard you can trade one for a nice car. (Click it. I’m serious. It’s hilarious.)

2. Feed large amounts of sugar.  Right as the sugar high turns into a crash, administer Benadryl.  And tequila.

3. Sign Toddler up for a job at Walmart.  They’ll hire anyone.

4. Hire a babysitter to watch the Toddler.  In another country.

5. Invite a friend with lots of children over.  Try to make your kid “blend in with the crowd” when they’re leaving.

6. Duct tape is amazing.

7. Insert Toddler into box.  Mail to foreign land.

8. Ask the spouse to watch the Toddler for a day.  Of course, you will need to develop a highly detailed training course and manual of instructions first.  You know, JUST FOR THAT ONE DAY.

9. Convince Toddler that Elmo will personally visit him if he can win the “Who Can Be Quiet ALL DAY?” game.

10. Convince Toddler that Freddie Krueger will visit whoever loses the “Who Can Be Quiet ALL DAY?” game.

  

11. The fetching price for a Toddler is quite nice on the black market these days.

12. Put the kid in the closet.  It helps to have the closet soundproofed.

13. Paint fake beard on Toddler.  Drop off at midget colony.