Catching Up blah,blah, blah

It's been a while since I just sat down to write some thoughts here. I didn't used to care much who all read here or what he or she thought, but then that started to get in my way. I started visiting my favorite blogs, and then they started visiting mine sometimes (how nice!) and then I got all nervous. Silly, I know, but there it is. Becoming too self-conscious took away my flow, and I didn't like how that felt. I'd start to write, then I'd read it, and it didn't even sound like me. So, I left it. Gave myself more space from it and have tried to regain my perspective about it. So...here I go again...

We made a trip to Washington, DC a couple of weeks ago. I went to go see the glowing golden aura that I knew would be surrounding the White House, and sure enough, I saw it! Truly! I was a little surprised that the whole city wasn't levitating. Such a load off...But then we witnessed some weighty AIG discussions at the US Capitol (cool tour), and my bubble burst, remembering the pile of #@*& that was left behind to shovel out. The boys were wonderful travellers, and an unschooling mindset came in very handy when it was time to plan the day. They reminded me that going back to swim in the pool was way more interesting than going to see "one more exhibit." But they also trusted us to lead them around and show them the sights. Being there with them was such a kick, and we have loads of pictures and memories to share.

I lost a cousin. She died while we were away and I attended her funeral shortly after we returned. She was 50, married, with a teen son. Her legacy is one of simple, consistent giving to those around her. She was obviously grateful for every day, living with a delicate heart condition since birth, and she took the time to do and say the things that are often left undone and unsaid because we second-guess their importance, or because we think we'll have another chance. So I will try to honor her spirit by being more openly thoughtful, by saying the kind words rather than just thinking them, and by baking more cookies for my boys.

Nathan cut his long hair when we got back from vacation which made me feel both relieved and saddened. He said he just felt relieved. He loved the length, but hated to care for it...so it's not short-short...but he's got some bangs and his face is newly revealed to us again which I love.

Today we stayed home and watched LOTR and there were sword fights in the yard afterwards. Tomorrow we are headed into Boston for a kid-friendly presentation by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. It's supposed to rain, so we'll drive in, and maybe we'll catch a bite before heading back to our safe, dry home.

Feeling lucky and happy and myself.