Well, it was a week ago today that I called Mom in tears about my first helping at school experience. Each Wednesday a friend and I trade kids and take turns helping at school, so every other week I have the opportunity of helping in Abby's class. Everything went well in the classroom. I was impressed with those kids. They have to really listen and pay attention, I found myself asking one of the students what was supposed to be happening. It wasn't until class was dismissed for recess that I got my first big blow as a Mom who thinks their kid is absolutely wonderful. I watched from the window as Abby went up to a group of kids to play and they all walked away. She then went up to two other girls to play with them and they ran away from her, she ran to catch up and they ran away again. I watched her just stand there with her arms folded while the teacher asked me if Abby was having trouble at recess. I said that it looked like she was having trouble finding someone to play with. Abby came in and got her teacher for help. It didn't seem to affect her too much, but I hurriedly left the school with tears running down my face. It was a much harder day for me than it was for her. When she came home I asked her about her day, and she began telling me how great it was, and never once mentioned this playground episode. I hope she can always keep her confidence and happy disposition. I remember when I was having social trouble in 6th grade, Mom telling me just wait till something like this happens to your kids - it's way harder for the mom. That's for sure. Katie and Melissa - treasure these days when you have your kids to yourself all day long. I find myself watching the clock for Abby to come home just to find that she wants to leave and play right when she gets home. I love you all and hope all is going well in your homes.

The perfect period on a conference weekend for me was "Our Town", by Thornton Wilder on PBS last night. Cristie and I, Sam, Dave, and Lizzie watched it together (Ed and Valerie watched a little, and Joe was in and out).

It's one of my favorite American plays, familiar to me from my college days. Paul Newman did an excellent job as Stage Manager, and the other actors were equally up to the task.

Dave said he thought it was a little strange, but he stuck with it. And when I asked him about it today, he admitted he has thought about it several times, which for me is an indication it made some kind of an impression.

Because of the play, I have lived today more completely and fully than most. My day was nothing special; the usual phone calls (four hour teleconference), e-mail, etc., but I took notice of some of the little things. The beautiful color in the mountains, the crisp, cool morning, and the friendly afternoon. I actually really looked at a few faces of both strangers and those I love. I listened and felt more than I usually feel. And I plan on doing more of the same tomorrow.

I havent written on the blog for ever. I am so excited for halloween its gonna be fun. well yesterday mom and I got all of the halloween decorations out and then while the boys were gone we went to wood we ever and let be tell ya mom baught quite a bit of stuff she baugt a halloween witch, a bee pillow , a cool santa and this pot sort of a thing.
and then we went to GAP but they didnt really have much cute stuff. and then we went to the childrens place (all that stuff is for little kids) and then we took a peek into Gyboree(little kid stuff)