Kids of Summer

Tonight was one of those nights you want to "freeze in time." I just love this age. First we collected wood for a backyard campfire. Then we told spooky stories while we waited for the perfect roasting coals. After that we worked on our marshmallow roasting technique (there really is an art to it). Then our neighbor offered us a nice basket of sticky rice. Finally, we finished off the night with a round of collecting fireflies. I wish I had the literary gifts to put in words just how wonderful this night was.... maybe practice makes perfect.

Made From Scraps?

Last week we made homemade cookies for a picnic at L&O's school. Laurel came home and said,"Were the cookies made from scraps?" I said, "No- they are made from scratch." I love those little mix-ups with language. Some others that I remember are: It is froggy outside. Blow an arrow (bow and arrow) wheelerchair (wheelchair)... wish I could remember the others but maybe I will add them as they happen.

Starting a New Chapter

Some people use the word blessed so much that it starts to dilute the significance. But I can honeslty say that everyday that L and O were at school for these past four years I would think to myself- We are so blessed. I could not have asked for a better "home away from home" to nuture their spirits and learning. I knew when they were at school they were with teachers who loved them and cared for them as much as I do. I could feel the warmth the day I first visited the school. During these four years I saw them grow with a sense for caring and community. As an added bonus, they also stretched their minds. I can't even put into words how happy I am that somehow I stumbled upon this school and decided to give it a try. It was probably the best decision in parenting that I have made so far.

Gift of Gab

L never got to kiss the Blarney Stone when we were in Ireland but somehow she still got the gift of gab. I tell you all this as a warning- If you ever hear her tell a story, know that it is likely only 10% true and 90 % exaggeration. I heard her on the phone with my mom the other night. Here are some excerpts:
...I heard mommy say, "Oh my gosh.!" I came running inside and there was this huge flood of iced tea. (True version: There was a small leak coming from the new iced tea cooler. About 2 ounces leaked out.)
...My poison ivy is all better because mommy bought a whole cart full of lotion at A&P. She always says she needs three things and then we go in the store and she fills up the whole cart and when we go to pay it is hundreds of dollars and she always says the same thing..."I can't believe how much money we spent." (True version: I bought three poison ivy remedies. I spent $60 but I will admit over $10 was on tomatoes!!!!)
I wish I could remember her other retellings- she was in rare form. If only I had a tape recordor!