In the First Week...

The sunrise the first week of January

There were multiple days of sunshine. In January. Without snow.

There were no classes to attend, so we did what we wanted and when most days: Jump City with Emily, Harper and Crosby, a trip to the mall for dance shoes and returns, out to lunch, lots and lots of bead time, hide and seek outside, painting piggies, Candyland for the first time.

We ate chicken tortilla soup, sloppy joes, three bean chili, vegetable coconut curry, slow cooked pork shoulder and grits.

We wrote thank you notes, pondered and finally decided on a Florida vacation, sent our New Year cards, got groceries twice, recycled our bags and bags of glass at a place I just discovered right by our house, washed sheets for the first time in I don't know how long (is that gross?), and had friends over for dinner.

I did not fold the multiple loads of laundry that sat (and still sit) in laundry baskets, did not go through the pile of mail, and did not get caught up on my e-mail.

We took down all the indoor Christmas decorations, put Christmas toys away, and relished a de-cluttered, clean house (if only for a day). I'm so grateful for the women that clean our house.

We took a family run in the sunshine, three smiling faces jogging down the street, Anna breathless and giggling the entire way.

I saw a movie alone on Sunday afternoon and cried nearly the entire time. The Descendants. Amazing performances, phenomenal film. But, it will make you cry.

We slept restlessly. Anna woke nearly every night this week, and stayed up for lengths of time that I'd forgotten were possible.

Anna and I took the occasional nap. See above.

Failed (or still have a lot to learn, depending on your perspective) at being a more patient mother. Again, see above.

Anna had an appointment at the doctor. She's grown over one inch in the last three months.

I ran twice in the sunshine, once if fifty-four degree weather.

Anna picked out a bright blue leotard and skirt for her first ever dance class next Friday. Black or pink? Not a chance. I hope this place is relaxed about their dancing attire.

I felt mostly present. I enjoyed the happy moments and felt excited about the year ahead.