Hard for me to believe that this is the first post of 2014. Not an indicator that so much has happened that I haven't had the time to sit down and reflect. Nor is it an indicator that so little has happened -- I would most certainly propose the former. Our family has gleefully absorbed some spring weather the last few weeks, which truly has saved anyone's psyche after the bitter, cold, and snowy winter PA shook down on us. We also have welcomed another "bump" in the road - baby bump that is! Expecting #2 this September, and it will be the family's first boy. Both families, actually. I, with three sisters, and Mike with a sis of his own, my dad's first reaction was also that shocking realization: "A grandson!! Wow, what do I do with a grandson?!"
Mike's reaction was actually somewhat similar to Gramps' statement. Contextually different, Mike wanted another daughter, to which most friends, peers, and colleagues scoffed, "Really?! Don't fathers always want at least one son?" Anyone who really knows Michael, however, could never dismiss his sensitivity and affection for his baby daughter (or, yes, his beloved dog and wife). He's really surrounded by women most of the time, and so that was my understanding of his desire for another girl.
Hubs and I took the day off together to find out "Peanut's" gender and grab a late lunch to celebrate - whichever blue or pink bundle the stork was planning on dropping by. So, as he deliciously dipped his roast beef Au Jus, I inquired tentatively, "You sure you're okay with a boy this time?" The conversation, as rich as our desserts, was insightful for us both - more so than I expected having known the mind of this man for over a decade; his answer was surprising but sensible. Thoughtful and rational. But still a mystery to me somewhat. I've never doubted Mike's capabilities to be a good dad, as I had seen the way he takes care of so many beings in his life - from friends to puppies to well, you name it. And the way he is with Elle is authentic and genuine and proof of this philosophical pudding. He will bring all that much more curiosity and love for our son, and I can't wait to see him have a 'little man' under his wing. *Unfortunately, his reason is not mine to exploit, so if you'd like to know what his hesitation was all about you can ask him for the juice!
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So, why the 'Egypt' titular reference, then? As I was on a glorious, breezy, sunny, fresh walk with Winnie and E this morning, my nose brought me back to childhood, raised in earlier years by the comforts of rural Maine. We lived on Egypt Road, in a paradise of ferns, wild blueberries, deer, and moss. My sisters and I were inseparable usually - with one another and Mother Nature herself - and the aromatics from today were reminders of all that exploration as a kid. Today when we returned home, Windsor lay on the grass chewing a tennis ball while Elle and I played with sidewalk chalk, stopping only now and again to munch some goldfish. Barefoot and boisterous, Elliot decided to take off under the front yard maple and feel the lawn under her toes. Her inquisitive stares back caused me to think, was this what my mom experienced with her 4 wood nymphs? I merely nodded with a smile to "okay" whatever question Elle was asking of me, and so she continued to roam the lot (albeit smaller than our kingdom on Egypt), picking up sticks and offering them for Windsor to chew on. The moment was so peaceful and heartwarming. It appeared like one of those full-circle moments under which I was spellbound, gazing upon my little own bean in a way I presume most mothers/parents do. Today I saw myself within her, and writing about it now brings some small, happy tears to my eyes.
Hopefully more news and reflection will present here sooner rather than later. Professionally, I am forging ahead, and I will be happy to share that news soon. But, if you have the chance today - no matter the weather - get some air in your lungs and moss under those toes!
