Josie of the ocean

My baby went on a three-day camping trip with her middle school this past week, and couldn’t bring her phone.

So we didn’t call or text at all, and she has been glued to my side for all 11 years of her life.

Josie has stayed with grandparents and friends, but usually texts me good night or calls because she’s homesick.

This girl had a great time on the campout by the beach, and I’m so glad she’s spreading her wings and flying.

But also, I missed her so intensely that it surprised me.

Maybe it’s me who needs to snip the umblical cord as much as her needing to pull away.

Last night I had a dream that a big wave came and engulfed us both, and I couldn’t find her.

I felt she was OK, but I was waiting nervously to spot her in the surf.

The dream didn’t resolve, because I was woken up by Josie climbing into my bed in the morning for her typical snuggles.

I hope the ocean tide of life taking her on her journey is always gentle, and that ever so often the sea returns her to me. 🌊💙

One thing at Grocery Outlet

This customer was just perturbed at Grocery Outlet because they didn’t have the one thing he came there for.

Look here, my guy.

The only thing you come to Grocery Outlet for is to get high off the joy of bargain Christmas candy in July or fall candles in February.

Anything else, and you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

Out with the sea

I am realizing that true friends not only check in on you no matter the distance, but remember what’s important to you.

Things like texts to you on your kids’ birthdays. Following up to ask about that major doctor’s appointment. Your favorite candy just because.

These are the sparkling sea glass.

If friends are not all in, out with the sea. 🌊

Babyless and happy

You know….I think baby fever has officially left the building.

Babies and toddlers are cute and all, but there’s really something special about when your kids are old enough to go on rides by themselves, and on the roller coasters as a family.

My opinion was further cemented by a toddler already having a meltdown as we all walked into Legoland at the very start of the day.

And again when a little girl came up and dropped Cheetos into my stinky shoes I had slipped off and then cried because she still wanted to eat them.

And again when this dad couldn’t get the stroller he was pushing to move.

Remember all those baby snacks and bottles and diapers?

I am SO good babyless right now.

Disney hugs

My son is almost 15, and most nights I simply call out “night, love you!” when he finally goes to bed after much nagging on my part.

Gone are the times of nighttime snuggles and reading picture books together.

This morning, though, he approached me unprompted where I was still lying in bed and leaned down to give me a kiss and a hug.

He kept holding on, so I kept holding on back with a tight squeeze, rubbing his back. Grateful for the opportunity.

Finally standing up, he asked me: “Is that like the Disney characters, Mom? Where they won’t let go first?”

“I guess so,” I said.

And it was off to the day.

The only option you knead

If you are so fortunate to squeeze in a pedi: Listen to me, sis.

Don’t ever select the “flap” or “knocking” buttons on the massage chair unless you want your boobs slapping you in the face and your whole body jiggling around like you’re on a carnival ride. 🎡

Knead is your ONLY option to retain your dignity. The only option you knead.

Nervous baby

My daughter is nervous about summer camp starting tomorrow and a swim test.

When she is anxious, we often do our nails together and watch something fun on T.V.

You can’t always shove a nursing boob in their face or rock their fears away, but you can pull out some glitter polish and 13 Going on 30 and it works almost as well to comfort your baby at any age.

Another snuggle

Don’t worry, moms.

Maybe one day when your baby is heading to high school, he will settle in again some night for a snuggle. 💙

Graduation Lay’s

I didn’t get my son a lei for his middle-school graduation. When I mentioned this to him afterwards, he said “Don’t worry, Mom. I got Lay’s.”

Do anyway, we’re good.

Here’s my baby and me on his big day. I’m so proud. 🎓

Girl fever

*My daughter and I both with colds, doing art*

Josie: “My friend and I call it ‘girl fever’ cuz we’ll just be doing all kinds of stuff when we’re sick.”

Ladies and gentlemen: The antidote for man flu. It starts early in the females. 💪🏻♀️