Full scribble

I'm feeling reflective today. Maybe it's because this morning I had a moment of perfect happiness with Ben, watching his face uncrumple from sleep as he rubbed his eyes with his fists — such a thoroughly little-kid move that I haven't stopped smiling yet. Maybe it's because Charlie turns ten next week, his birthday coming hard on the heels of World Prematurity Day, when I spend the day thinking,I almost missed this. So many do. (No, I cannot explainthis picture. Why are we not holding him?) Maybe it's because a friend pointed me tothe latest papal finger-wagging about IVF, and I realized I just couldn't muster much indignation. Which is weird. I'mgenerally up for taking the Popemobile for a spin. This time around I feel quieter.I made myself cry in the shower imagining the things I'd say if we took turns at the Thanksgiving table expounding on our gratitude. We don't, so I'll juststare really hard at each child in his turn. I'll touch my earlobe discreetly to remind Charlie not to bellow. I'll gently daub at the gravy Ben will have splashed into his ears. When I catch Paul's eye over the ruin the kids have made of the table, my look will say,Can you believe this? ...You know what's weird? Taking your walking, talking child for a tour of an IVF clinic. I was invited to an open house hosted by former doctors of mine who've struck out on a new venture, and I took Charlie with me for reasons of convenience....
Source: a little pregnant - Category: Child Development Authors: Tags: Ben there, done that Charles in charge Source Type: blogs