rock

The interesting thing about a blog is that when you write regularly, there is a record of what you were doing and thinking about before. With just a few clicks of the mouse, I can know that I was itching to find work, last year. To do more stuff outside of the house for which I would be financially compensated. But in that search, I found I had to have just the right hours. My husband has long days and I couldn't have the kids with a sitter on both ends of the day. The job also had to make some economical sense. What's the point if it meant too much time away from the kids and almost everything drained away for a babysitter, transportation and other stuff?

This year, I am grateful to have time with my boys. Jake and I dropped Belac off and continued walking to his middle school, this morning. We talked about his binder and how he needs to bring AND open it in each class. He's still turning most of his homework in late despite completing it on time, much to my dismay. He's already trying to keep up with all that is expected of him. I asked Jake if he wanted a magnetic erase board for his locker. Would that help you? No, he told me, I don't think I'd look at it. Okay, I said, impressed that he knew that about himself. Let's just keep it simple with your assignment book.

Eventually, we found ourselves walking behind a blind high schooler. Look at him, Jake. Can you imagine that he gets to school, everyday, by himself with just that white stick? That girl in your class, Elizabeth, is going to be just like him someday. But how does he do it with just that stick? he asked. Practice, I told him. I could not in a million years close my eyes and walk all the way here without hurting myself! This kid had to have practiced A LOT. And he also had to have wanted it badly.... You know what else is remarkable? It wouldn't surprise me if there were people who thought this was too dangerous or that he couldn't do it. But look! He's walking as fast as us, to the side of the walk, up and down the bumpy path. Totally independent.

In front of the school we paused. I perched my foot on a rock and tied my shoe. Look! I pointed out, it's the perfect rock for this! You could check to make sure your shoes are tied before you run to Gym from here. Jake then laughed at me, I don't know why. Was it because I was so excited about a rock? Is it because I managed to make even a random rock part of his being prepared for school? See you later mom, he called as he headed into the building.

For Jake, I thank my lucky stars I have the time to help him figure things out. This year, I don't want it any other way.