“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: You’ve been very physically affectionate this week, and I have no complaints. Someone pointed out to me once that, unless they have a significant other, most tweens and teens experience very little in the way of physical contact with others. That makes me really sad! I have made it my goal to hug you as often as you will let me.

Zane: It is FINALLY warming up, and we are starting to spend more time outside. You are very, very excited about all of the birds that have returned. You’ve already figured out that spring birds = nests = eggs = baby birds, and there is nothing you love more than nests, eggs, and baby birds! In fact, I often find you pretending that YOU are a mother bird. There is a part of you that is incredibly nurturing; someday you’ll be a great dad.

“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: Last night when we drove by the elementary school (for grades 5-8) you told me, “I can’t wait to go to the big school…but, I’m also a little scared.” I feel like this perfectly summarizes where you are in your life right now. I so clearly remember the feeling of wanting to grow up, and yet not feeling confident that I’d be very good at it. Most of the time, I still feel like I’m faking it!

Zane: Well, this week has been challenging. You’ve developed a not-so-awesome habit of throwing things and hitting when you’re mad — 100% developmentally appropriate, but still incredibly frustrating. Having already raised one toddler, I know that this is just a phase and pretty soon you’ll probably (hopefully?) stop. Still, I think I’m going to put all breakables under lock and key and perhaps invest in full body armor for the time being!