Monthly Archives: April 2008

First Freckle

Posted on by

As I sat this morning, with an overly-tired toddler, I found myself scanning his every feature while he greedily gulped down his overdue bottle.  I found a stray hair here, a remnant piece of breakfast there, and then…there, on the creamy-white skin of his chubby little forearm, a speck, a tiny dot that would not be wiped away no matter how much I licked my thumb. 

For a brief moment, I felt concerned and worried by the appearance of the little brown circle…then my mind drifted back over the busy week and the moments we spent going for long walks or sharing snacks with friends at the sun-drenched tables by the river.  In his new-found contentedness, his perfectly plump fingers brushed lightly against my own arm, and I glanced in that direction where I saw several little specks scattered about.  Of course he’ll have freckles! I thought to myself.  After all, he is his mother’s son.  \

I’m constantly amazed by the little way the lens of motherhood magnifies even the smallest detail.

Coming Home

Posted on by

I feel like it’s been so long since I’ve written that I should probably introduce myself again.  I’ve had millions of possible posts half-written in the insanity that is my mind, and yet somewhere between thinking so eloquently, reflectively and sometimes philosophically and getting it to flow through me and spring forth as actual words has been quite a challenge as of late.

Admittedly, I have been in what I’ll call a “funk” for the past couple of weeks.  Spending my entire day with students who may or may not give a rip that I spent 4 hours categorizing my bookshelves to make them more user-friendly or fighting with the copier for 45 minutes on a Sunday night doesn’t provide the most rewarding experiences.  Add that to the fact that I I’ve entered a new age bracket, which wasn’t really a spectacular celebration, and I’m hyper-emotional being nearly 6 months pregnant, and I hope you’ll understand my absence.  Instead of seeing the glass half-full I’ve been much more inclined to find it completely empty, and trying to “fill it” with empty words and posed pictures seemed trite.

So, on those happy notes, I’m am at least pleased to report that lately, things are looking up.  I’ve had a few days where I’ve seen small successes with students and felt validated in the methods I’m using in class.  I’ve had engaging conversations with new friends, colleagues, and family.  I’ve been bombarded by baby kicks and rolls and happily enjoying Calder as we spent last week combining work, play and rest on our much-needed spring break.

In some ways, my most and least favorite part of a trip is that familiar trip that ends at our front door.  That moment between turning off the car and opening the door is filled with relief that we’re safely back home, and a almost-tangible twinge of regret that our time away has come to an end.  Walking in and looking around, things look oddly different and yet startingly the same.  Even here, as I type, I’m surprised by the changes that have taken place in my absence…yet it feels good to be back among the writing.

So the few of you who are out there reading, please know that I’m back.  Slowly, but surely I’ll find that groove once again and happily share the ups (and downs) with those who are interested enough to stop by.