This last week, Henry has started to nod yes and shake his head no, indiscriminately. He has also started to point. This is a step up in the communication department for him, even if he says yes and no to anything you ask, and it is so entertaining to ask him questions. He understands that something is being asked of him and he ought to reply. Such a delight, he is.
Our patio project is progressing - we now have the paver sand tamped and started to lay down bricks, except, like last time, we forgot that the square bricks are about a third less thick than the rectangular bricks, which means we need to fill in the spots where the square bricks go with a little more paver sand. It's a tedious process, but it's better than spending the next five years stubbing our toes on bricks that protrude from the patio.
Lydia and Elvis wrap up the school year this coming week - we are all looking forward to summer and the freedom to come and go and stay up later and sleep in (ha). I started running again the other day and hope to work my way back up to the Ashland Balloonfest 5K. I did two miles at a horribly slow pace, mostly because I'm still nervous about my knee and its tendency to ache afterward, but it wasn't too bad.
The good news I have to share is that my essay, "Those Summers, These Days," which appeared in Ascent, will be listed as a notable essay in this year's Best American Essays. Woo hoo! I'm still beaming about this news. I have another essay I've just started that could prove to be a real challenge, on self-image, insecurity, boys/men, daughters, and lots more. I made a bulleted list of topics I think could fit in this essay. Now I just need to write it. Just.
I just read your essay published on Ascent. Beautiful. (As well as much of your blog!)
ReplyDeleteI had a very similar upbringing. A "Free-Range" kid. No fences or curfew. I am conflicted on how I can provide the same freedom for my children. I see that this is possible through embracing our neighbors and creating familial relationships with close friends. I love the scene you have set in your writing and having met you, though just briefly at RT Conference, I can see that you are the type to naturally fall into that Matriarch role that so many family-less families need.
Go you!
Your family is beautiful. My four year old, Natalie is thrilled that you also have a Henry.
She doesn't know who Elvis was, so I guess I shouldn't be too surprised at the blank stare I got when I told her the name of your other son. Haha!
Your patio is going to be great!