While many of us have heavy hearts remembering this day 10 years ago (I certainly won’t forget it), I hope it reminds us to celebrate the little moments and enjoy the people we love. Even on the not-so-perfect days—which, frankly, is most of them. And, as I sent my preschooler off into the world of “real” learning called school, I found myself all wrapped up in thoughts of him. So for those of you who weren’t sure about me calling him out as a class clown, here’s what I’ve learned this week, courtesy of Little.
Lesson #1: If overuse of temporary tattoos is any indication of likelihood to go for the real deal later in life, Little is going to be one colorful man. Then again, his chanting “ow, ow, ow” while holding the wet paper towel to his arm gives me a bit of hope that he won’t be too liberal with a needle.
Lesson #2: Halloween is a great opportunity to be something you always dreamed of. Like a Star Wars Incredibles Transformer Leopard. (The ultimate challenge for a mom whose costume-making track record isn’t that impressive.)
Lesson #3: Hearing your 2-year old spell his name aloud for the first time fills you with (perhaps an inappropriate amount of) pride. That is until you ask, “What does that spell?” and he enthusiastically responds, “Dammit!”
Lesson #4: There’s just something about bubbles and the wonder in kids’ eyes as they pop them. Especially if they’re the ones their very own pee created in the toilet.
Lesson #5: The miraculous features of a minivan are only as reliable as the people using them. It turns out that if your little one says they pushed the button to close the door, but didn’t, the car door stays open. Even if you’re inside the preschool for 30 minutes and left your purse and phone sitting on the front seat.
Lesson #6: When you’re sleep deprived, be very careful ordering what you think is unisex (“for baby”) clothing. Otherwise you’ll be chasing your puffy-sleeved Charger-lovin’ son all over town.
Lesson #7: This generation really is so much more environmentally conscious. When I offered Little a napkin the other day he quickly replied, “No, I don’t need to waste that. I used my shirt. I’m clean.”
Lesson #8: While you may love having quality time with your child, the feeling isn’t always mutual. While sitting at the donut shop with Little yesterday, I told him I loved being able to go somewhere—just him and me. Wasn’t it great? He replied, “No. I wish Daddy, Big and Pink were here.”
Lesson #9: Balloon swords are much cooler than balloon animals.
Lesson #10: And while this one wasn’t inspired by Little, it’s an important one to share. It turns out the smell of many fresh-cut onions combined with cleaning chemicals coming up through the shower drain mimics the scent of a gas leak. In fact, it even tricks the PG&E sensors into thinking there might be a problem. Which requires you and your family to sit outside for an hour and a half while the patient and kind man from PG&E risks his life to tell you that, in fact, the only problem you have was that you picked a bad volunteer job for the neighborhood picnic. Next year I’ll give in and spend 30 minutes yelling at other people’s kids on bounce house duty.
May your week be safe, sweet and filled with time enjoying the ones you love (and may it be reciprocal!).
Your very sweet, funny and uplifting post is very appreciated today…as it is everyday but, especially today!
Glad I could share a smile with you from afar!
#8 really resonated with me. This past year, I have planned these elaborate Mommy/Daughter bonding adventures. I spend hours planning them, arrive to get her all pumped for the fun we are going to have, only to be crushed each time when she either: cries that she wants daddy, screams that she hates whatever it is I have planned, refuses to go with me, or something worse! How is it that these kids know just the perfect dagger to thrust into our heart!
Oh man. I have no doubt that she loves it, but that’s just a time that she feels comfortable enough to let her emotions run high. Keep it up…I know I will certainly try again because, no matter what he says, I know he needs it.
Too funny. I love it! #3 will so be my kid one day.
Ha! When it’s time, I’ll pass down my mother of the year button to you!
LOVE that guy:>
Me too. 🙂
I. Love. #. 3. Sounds like something my youngest would yell!
Afraid all the blame goes to me on that one. Not only for teaching it to him, but for laughing when he says it an encouraging the behavior. I just can’t seem to help myself!
love that little!!!! He’s so bright and clever!!!!
Seamus was just smart enough to get the cap off of the teacher’s marker and draw all over her chair and carpet while I was busy volunteering in finn’s class for the first time today. He then proceeded to run around in circles until he fell down. then he got back up and did it again… and again.
I think we need more time in donut shops! 🙂
Oh no! Great reminder for me to keep my little “artist” OUT of the kindergarten class. Sounds like Seamus and Little should be kept far, far apart. (Or not, let’s figure out that visit!)
Amy- What a cute story. Had me smiling and giggling the entire time 🙂 Life is constantly changing isn’t it! They are always growing and learning new things. Then they actually start to think for themselves and the things that come out of their mouths! I love how you embrace him for every “little” thing he is! So luck to have a truly funny and embracing mom like you! -Laverne (visiting late) from Just.Be.Enough link up 🙂
Well Laverne, as far as I can tell, you’re actually early. I haven’t had a chance to visit others yet at all! Thanks for coming by, enjoying some laughs and sharing kind words. I look forward to reading your post!