Day 6 of Daddy out of town. Status report: we're alive!
As I dashed into the bathtub for my four and a half minute shower, little fingers pried their way underneath the door, accompanied by a distinct screech of disapproval, reminding me that my days of lengthy, relaxing, reflective and (dare I say it) private showers are a thing of the past. {
Dear Sabina and Valiant: I need to borrow your hair clippers (for my legs).} I decide every day to dress, comb my hair (even if it is 5 days between washings/showers) and prepare myself (i.e. brush my teeth) as if my appearance matters to the little men whose need for my attention, assistance, affection and approval is fairly all-consuming in this season of life. I decide each day, because it does matter... I have been given the opportunity to raise/train and nurture this little pack and my personal preparation each morning helps set the course for using well the time we're given in this day.
I wish I could stop and save the moments that are so tender, hilarious, or just incredible in every way, but there is no permanent ink that stays this thing we call time. It just keeps slipping from one day into the next, leaving me with memories, regrets and joy - so much joy. Lochlan toddling (and sometimes teetering) on those chubby legs, "practicing" when he thinks we're not watching. I find him checking his speed capabilities with caution, stopping to regain his balance if he feels the teetering might be overtaking the toddling. Everything in this boy's world is tackled with a smile across his face or a twinkle in his bright blue eyes. Declan's insistence on helping me in every task, with particular inclination toward dish washing, laundry washing, tea preparation, floor mopping, laundry folding, dog potty-ing, and bathing the brothers. His heart is so easily crushed when he feels his help isn't welcome/needed and I am daily chagrined by his disappointment. He is the ready-made helper who is a natural benefit to humanity. And...he loves fiercely. Kelton is mesmerizing with his quick smile and his snuggly body. He fusses about almost nothing and he genuinely seems to love life and the people in it. He coos at me when I tell him "what we're going to do today" and tells me his secrets as best he can. His sparkling eyes make my heart dance. My Madigan has not a single aspect of his life that could be defined as dull. He is a spark, and I find that one of my more consistent challenges is to keep that spark from starting flames too hot, while simultaneously fanning the spark to keep it alive and allow it to revitalize the world that exists because he's in it.
For those of you craving some snippets from the peanut gallery (If lack that particular craving, skip below for a photo repertoire from this week):
- "Mommy, I love you so much, it makes me want ketchup." Honestly spoken, son.
- "Mommy, when Daddy gets home he will give you a reminder to obey me." Yeah, probably not.
- "Oh Mommy, I love that hat! It really suits you!" The British accent that accompanied this comment didn't hurt.
- "Mommy, you need to hand me the water NOW, or I'll be choking and choking for 2 whole weeks." Dehydration = serious.
- "Ankie Tae will be coming to visit us in 2 weeks, 2 days and 240 hours." In case you were wondering.
- "Kelton isn't a real baby - he doesn't have teeth!" The definition of real baby is: _____________
- During time out: "Mommy, I will only stay in here until 3 days O'clock." Agreed.
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Jevy, hard at work. |
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Tiger, building a road. |
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My Tiger |
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Kelton |
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My Mr. Incredible |
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Brother 1 loves brother 4 |
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Feel free to melt the heart. |
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Paugie Eyes (that I love). |
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Thinking face |
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The Bros |
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Trouble and more trouble. |
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My brown boys. |
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(Fake) sleeping Paugie Boy. |