Okay, really it’s a jump rope wrapped around car seats, but Tom and I couldn’t stop laughing when we walked out to discover Neko had rigged up some “laser vision” for Shep.
Category: Shep
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Picnic
I was busy cleaning up the kitchen when I noticed Neko kept zipping in and out, grabbing snacks and a few other things.
When I hadn’t heard voices for a few minutes, I looked out the window and saw all three of my little ones, having a picnic under the big tree, talking and laughing with one another.
Hello, summer.
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Shep graduates
Graduation night brings a row of nervous five-year-olds in miniature graduation caps. They sang us some songs and received diplomas.
Shep has been beside himself with excitement for weeks about this night, making sure all the important people would be in attendance. We made sure to get pictures with Cindi and Julie, and his treasured “girlfriend” Eleanor (whom Ellery treasures just as much).
He was so excited when we got home, he slept in his cap and shirt. Okay, I know it’s only a preschool graduation, but I have to admire the kid’s enthusiasm.
Next stop: kindergarten.
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Last day of school: Shep
We made it to the last day of preschool for Shep! Swimming and a picnic cap off the year. Shep was running around so quickly, I barely had a chance to catch him in the frame.
After years of walking in Neko’s shadow, it’s been exciting to see him step out on his own.
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Recovery
Yesterday was all kinds of bad. Tom left early Friday morning for San Francisco. I stayed up too late the night before. And the kids? They’ve been simmering for a few weeks.
At some point I’ll write down the details of the day when I have time to do it justice. It started miserably, but ended well. And left us all spent.
Today we took it slow. After swimming lessons, I parked myself under a tree. For hours. It started by keeping an eye Daisy to make sure she didn’t eat the chickens, which meant I had to stay put. I brought out my phone and listened to my book club book, which I downloaded a week or so back.
And I sat. And sat. An hour in, my mom walked up the hill and sat with me, which you would think we do all the time, with them just down the hill and all. But life gets busy and then you don’t. But today we did!
Neko and Shep created a massive mud puddle with the hose, stripped off all their clothes, and got as muddy as they’ve ever been. And we just sat and laughed.
We only took a little break to go in and take a few photos of Ellery, who passed out in her beanbag chair reading a book during quiet time.
Funny what happens when you force yourself to stop moving. I hope for more of that this summer.
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Sleepover
I often think one of the best gifts I can give my kids is one another. Neko and Shep have been the best of friends as of late. So when they asked for a sleepover, even on a school night, I just couldn't say no.
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Shep turns five
Shep, if I could freeze you at this age, I would definitely ponder it.
You are in the sweetest of spaces. Most everything delights you. You’re considerate of others, and beginning to notice the injustices of the world. A week ago you came up with a list of the people you would like at your birthday party. Other than family, it simply included three girls from preschool. When I asked you why, you said, “Everyone makes fun of these three girls, so they are they only ones I want to come.” Oy, my heart.
I’m beginning to see the inklings of rougher waters, but in between, you are one good kid.
Tom bought most of your presents this year. I’m beginning to suspect I had no genetic contribution, as you and your father are peas in a pod. Every present he bought was spot-on. I’ll have more photos of these things later, since now you’re on the road.
Why, you ask? Because on Monday you announced Tom was taking you to Chicago on your birthday.
We thought we could get away with a few inequities between siblings for one more year, but it seems we were wrong. Justice prevailed, and after preschool, Tom picked you up and you hit the road. You were having a fantastic time last I heard.
So here I sit, on the evening of your birthday, and you’re out on the town. I didn’t think that would happen so soon, being left behind on your big day. But it’s inevitable, so I suppose it’s good to get broken in early. It makes me smile to think of you, bouncing around the hotel room, in the middle of a big city, barely containing your excitement and happiness. A mother can’t ask for much more than that.
Happy birthday.
