Shave and a Haircut

We practiced it! “I need a Number 3 around with a fade and long sides. Half the length a top from what I have now and please thin it out. I wear it spiky!” Now I’m watching my boy holding as still as he can on the chair as the clippers drop bits of hair on his nose he’s dying to itch. Funny how in just minutes he’ll look older and taller. Thanks Mr Barber Man.

Kings Country

Awe when reached is a humbling experience. It may serve as a reminder of our relative size among all things, the briefness of our time on earth or the elemental connection we have with all about us. Now imagine sharing a long string of experiences like this with a core group of great friends over the years. Seeing world wonders time after time in our own California back yard. Instilling onto our children the sense of awe that the desert, ocean or forest imposes. 
That’s what this weekend was about. 
It was precious and it was awesome.

Gene

The very first official girlfriend I ever had broke up with me midway through a regular 5th Grade day. We were sitting on the carpet, the room was dark and she wanted to hold hands and own my gaze. I know this because she aggressively whispered so to me. She could not understand why I couldn’t tear my attention away from the boy with the ticket, the river of chocolate, the monotone Oompas or the candy that turned you into a balloon. More important I was mesmerized by the funny man with knowing smile who could make a difference in a poor 11 year old’s life (if the kid was worthy). The relationship was brief but the movie-man made an impression.

Fare-thee-well Gene!

Date Nite

Dating ain’t easy! You want her to have fun. You tell your best jokes. Ya watch your drinks so as not to make a fool of yourself. Oh darn I hope the outfit I chose doesn’t let my belly show too much! No lie but you are checking her out but trying to be sly about it! That top she’s wearing is something else though! 
Then you get her back at your place. Well her place. Actually our place…the kids hug you both and you’re back to the “everyday”. 
But you both know the date was fun and if your lucky the little people will go to bed early and then……….

Perfect Imperfection

There are quiet morning moments when I look about my house and pout. I see the half-way finished projects, or the older carpets, the clothes the kids didn’t put away, the drought affected front yard or the dilapidated garage door. I despair a little. Then I walk a few feet, turn a corner and see the notches measuring how tall my ramblers are getting. I see dogs basking in the sun in spots where other past dog-friends made their own. I see the hand-chosen colour on the walls that she made me apply alone because the paint smell made her sick. As I move across the hallway I remember that fun night Nic and I (oh that’s a post for a different day).
There are perfect stories woven into the four corners of this imperfect home. It’s why we work so hard to keep it.