I think most parents will understand my mixed feelings about the first day back to school after spring break. On the one side, it’s been so great having the kids home – sharing special activities and moments for which most hurried days provide no space, and I am sad for it to end. On another side, I’m a bit worn out and ready for some space and time without sticky fingers tangling in my hair, and demands for more stories, and pleas for “just one more” snack or piece of Easter candy. From another perspective I see the disciplinary disintegration that slides down the slope of relaxed routines and I know that a little more structure is just what they need. But on the flip side The hustle and frustration resulting from trying to reinstitute order to the morning process of school preparation is painful.
So, today’s poem is short and a little painful, like my mood at the moment, with just a pinch of the self-awareness I need to feed before my little trouble-makers get home and we need to have a TALK about the morning routine.
She Has My Voice
When my daughter whines
I hear my own petulance
corrupt her sweet voice.
Faith, Family, & Focaccia 
April 21, 2014 at 6:48 pm
Serena,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful, consistent, blogging. I find that the few minutes it takes for me to read what you’ve put out there resonates deeply. I appreciate your honesty and perspective. Am so thankful for the time we were able to spend nurturing a friendship and for the connection that is still there. I really wish that we had the freedom for daily walks and deep conversations. So know that your words are a gift and help to nurture my thirsty soul—it is good for me to take a break from my endless “to do” lists to sit with your words. Often I find myself wanting to shout out an AMEN (although not so appropriate at my various coffee shop offices).
I am grateful. Hugs!
April 21, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Stephanie, thank you so much for this encouragement. It means more than I can say. I too wish life gave us the chance for a walk and a talk (and a hug and a deep belly laugh) on a regular basis. You will always have a special place in my heart.