Archive for June, 2016

The Neighborhood Library

Monday, June 6th, 2016

From Monday Mom – Neetika:
When I was a kid, I always participated in the local library’s Summer Reading Program. I loved going down there and picking out a new book. I loved reading the book. I loved getting to add the title to my list. I even loved when I got old enough to select a few books on which to write short reports. It made me feel great about myself, like I was really achieving something.

I am having a lot of fun visiting the library now, as a mom. Haley really enjoys discovering new books. Hudson heads straight to the activity area, which is filled with toys. I appreciate all of the resources to take advantage of and activities to sign up for. The Children’s Section of the library is simply a happy place—everyone has a smile and a warm hello to share.

As the months get warmer, it’s essential to have a cool place to escape to. It means so much to me that Haley and Hudson have inherited the love of reading. No age is too young to sign up for the Summer Reading Program, but since Haley and Hudson can’t technically read yet, I’m not throwing their names into the ring at this time. I’m going to let them continue to experience books for the pure joy of it—at least for one more summer.

Under the Sea

Friday, June 3rd, 2016

From Friday Mom – Erin:

We took the kids to the National Aquarium in Baltimore last weekend.  Rory was in HEAVEN.  As I think I may have mentioned, he loves animals.  One of his favorite shows is all about animal powers, and he is constantly building animals out of Legos, toilet paper rolls, or whatever he can use with his imagination.

So when he first walked in to the giant entry way, filed with its shark tooth display and vast tidal pool, he was just thrilled.  He got to touch starfish, point out the numerous different turtles, watch Dolphins jump, and even touch a saw fish saw.  He was attentive and enthralled through each exhibit, and had a hard time saying good bye.

When asked which part was his favorite, his response was, “all of it.” I’d say that was a success.

Charlotte did okay, though strollers were not permitted, so she mostly ran around like a crazy person giving mommy her exercise.  But she was clearly impressed, too.

It is fun to be able to see new and exciting experiences through the eyes of children.  Granted, it’s a pretty neat aquarium to begin with, but I definitely saw it with renewed excitement when holding his little hand in mine.  

Birthday Boy

Wednesday, June 1st, 2016

Nine years ago, I was on the operating room table when I heard my sweet baby Jack crying, and it was the best sound I ever heard. Jack was placed on my chest, and we cried many tears together. Jack made me a mommy, and I’m so grateful for that title.

Jack and I are very close. He has been a momma’s boy since he was an infant. Due to Jack’s father being deployed, it was often just the two of us for the first several years of his life. When Jack is ill, tired, or feeling defeated, he prefers his momma to lean on. I love that we share a special bond together.

Jack is not a little kid anymore. I know his “momma’s boy” years are numbered, but I hope he still stops to hug me from time to time. I’ve watched Jack grow, learn, love, and laugh over the past nine years and it’s a tremendous joy to call him my son. Happy Birthday, Jack!