Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day everyone.

I've been tired since 1996, when Isabella (who is working today and not pictured) was born, have grown progressively more exhausted every year and with every kid. But I can't remember a single day where I haven't wanted to get up and out of bed to greet these beautiful souls. This is the good work of the world, raising up these boys and girls. This is the type of work I know is worthwhile and important and that keeps the earth from dissolving into darkness and madness. 

Basketball Court

My yard is hopeless anyway, so we've gone ahead and put in a basketball court. Every boy and his second cousin have been sniffing around today. Should be an interesting summer. 

The contractors wanted to know if we wanted them to take the dirt away, but I just couldn't part with this beautiful heap of rich black earth. Probably a mistake... 

Three Days in May

May 6 

Phillip and his bike.

May 7

Gordon watching basketball court get excavated and poured.

May 8

Spinach, tomato, olive oil, parmesan, lemon juice.

Cinco de Mayo

We celebrated Mexico's freedom from France yesterday at our local restaurant.

Phillip and one of my former students, who works there. 

Hangin' Indoors

Snowed again this morning. It's 35 degrees outside. We're staying inside until Mother Nature takes a Midol or something. Cripes.

Mother Nature, All is Forgiven...

Five days ago, there was a half foot of snow on the ground. Today, 78 degrees. 

Phillip, Jonny, Mitchell, Nick

Archibald.

Mike.

Mitch and me. Game of 500.

  

Archie and Nate.

Archie, throwing rocks.

Gordie, time-out.

Phillip's smore.

Violette and Abby.

Gordon and Archie.

Nick and Phillip.

Nate and Violette, smore.

Lou-Lou and Mike.

More Snow, and What's Worse? Nobody to Blame.

I know it won't last forever, but this cold and snow has worn out its welcome. Yeah, I know, I'm Minnesotan, should be tougher, more tolerant, more proud even of this long hold on winter. But today, on April 22 as it snows again, I'm a cat scratch away from a weather-induced freak-out. This lack of sun and heat and outdoor exercise is making my angst come out sideways. The problem with prolonged dreary, chilly weather is that you can't target your fury at it. There's no person or entity at which to shake your fist. I, for one, like to have a guilty and identifiable party for my wrath.