table talk with The Unicorn

And now, a snippet from tonight at dinner......

Angus: Can I pick my nose at school?
Me: No, you can't. That's not nice manners.
Angus: (after a brief pause) Oh.
Me: Why? Do you do it?
Angus: Yes.
Me: Where do you do it?
Angus : I hide so they won't see me.
Me: Where do you hide?
Angus: Everywhere. Under the tables, other places. In the trash can.

happy monday

if only every monday could be just like yesterday. then i'd have no complaints. school holiday + daddy's return from far too long away + 70 degree weather + momma-made peter pan hats + duct tape & cardboard daddy-made swords + a walk with my boys through the woods and along the river + discovering land art in the james + many many kisses and hugs = just about as good as it gets.

gratitude

at least three times a day, i feel or hear myself sounding just like my own mother. sometimes it's in the tone i've used to be just the right amount of firm with my kids. other times i recognize her in my soft and encouraging statements of praise, or in the way i feel holding hands with the boys as we cross the street. but unlike that old cliche, i haven't ever been overtaken with disgust when i notice her in me. i am always just really proud of myself because i know i am doing something right.

thank you, mom, for being who you are. and for knowing how to bring out the best in the me that i am. i'd never know what i was doing without the influence of your guidance from the past, your support in the present, and the irrational faith that you'll always be here for me in the future. i am truly grateful for being blessed with you for my mother.