My Teacher

Before JayBird was born, some friends honored me with a Blessingway.  In case you're wondering what a blessingway is, www.blessingwaybook.com defines it as "a sacred and safe environment where a mother-to-be can explore the challenges and joys that lie before her as she approaches birthing and mothering."  It was just what I needed.  A blessing, indeed.  Some of the strongest women I know, together in one room, to pass on their sage advice, their votes of confidence, and their beads.

Each person shared her story then lit a candle.  The mood was as somber as it looks.

During the ceremony, each woman presented me with beads that were later made into a necklace.  Some beads were full of memories.  Some full of intentions.  All full of love.  One friend who couldn't attend sent beads anyway.  They were not beads, however.  They were three little tags embossed with the words "passion", "journey", and "dream".

See those little silver tabs?

The letter she sent along revealed that they are the words that describe what each of her children is to her.  Still the mother of only one, I couldn't begin to understand how she did that.  But Kay Kay showed me.

That's no surprise.  In her three short years on Earth, she has shown me a lot.

Because of her, and through her, I've learned that people have a right to their emotions, and emotions are personal.

This is actually a "scary face", but it looks kind of like a sad face, right?

I've learned that just because it's edible doesn't mean it's food, even if it's in the grocery store.

Testing out a second birthday gift

I've learned that food can heal, and that it isn't always cheap.

Still cheaper than doctors and prescriptions, I believe.  This is a chart of the first month we really tracked food costs.

I've learned that when children speak, they have something to say.

"Look, Mama!  My baby's saying 'Papa' with her hands!"

I've learned that when I speak, children are hearing.

Monkey ears from last year's Halloween costume.  Not sure why they were needed that day.
The better to hear, I suppose.

I've learned that the only time I struggle is when I resist.

Obviously, this isn't a picture of me resisting.  It's a picture of me having surrendered.  I thought you might enjoy it more.

I've learned how my friend labelled her children.

Kay Kay has caused me to learn, and that's why she is my Teacher.

I sure wish photographs were scratch 'n' sniff.  I never get tired of smelling my babies. 

Time will tell what JayBird turns out to be, but here's a quick shot of him for pure enjoyment.