Weekends Are For

Weekends are for enjoying the cooler weather by spending the whole day outdoors.  And by "cooler weather" I mean 88 degrees.  Not all that exciting unless you live in Louisiana and have endured a smoking hot and ultra humid summer.  This weekend was nice and we took full advantage: early morning tea on the front porch, digging in the dirt, rinsing off with the water hose.  The girls are the happiest when they can be outside, no rules, no curating, just playing.  We are happy to oblige.  That pile of dirt on the side of our house is better than any playground in their eyes.  River absorbed the sights, sounds, and smells of the day from the comfort of his wrap.  I toted him around as I pruned the rosebushes, served lunch out back, and made room for winter vegetables.  He never made a peep.

Weekends are for taking a break and enjoying a more quiet and slow pace.  While I took an extra long shower, breathing in the peace and solitude that only a locked bathroom door can provide, Shawn entertained River with his guitar.  Do you remember when the neurologist told Shawn that the nerve damage caused by his accident was so extensive, he would never regain function of his arm and/or hand?  Since that day, those test results have served as the most powerful motivation tool for my husband, inspiring him to work day after day to rebuild his strength and range of motion.  He never misses a physical therapy session, works tirelessly on his exercises and stretches, and reminds me daily: "I WILL play my guitar again".  And friends, he is doing it.  He is teaching his hand to play again.  With his son by his side and his determination propelling him forward, he is strumming his guitar slowly but surely.  He is my hero.

Weekends are for spending time with family and blowing raspberries.  Brees is falling in love with her little brother more and more everyday.  This weekend, she lifted his little shirt and blew raspberries on his baby belly, giggling so loudly that the whole family was drawn into the room to see what all the fuss was about.  She had a rough time accepting her little brother at first, acting out and completely ignoring his existence.  I can't say that I blame her: SHE was the baby before he arrived.  But, with a lot of patience, some extra quality time, and numerous pep talks, she is beginning to understand that she will ALWAYS be our baby.  Just like Belle, just like River.  We love them all so big because our hearts keep stretching with each child.  She may have to share her parents and sister more now, but she's gaining a new best friend in the process.