The Simple Things

Saturdays often begin with Erica and me searching for possibilities of how to entertain Graham for the day. It can be stressful when we lack for good ideas. Today served as a reminder that I make things too complicated.

Following a late breakfast at one of our favorite local spots, Graham and I went for a walk. We played "I Spy" along the way.

"I spy a yellow car" ... "I spy a fire hydrant" ... "I spy the number eight."

Then Graham said, "I'm going to chase you."

I jogged ahead until he caught up. He tagged me and laughed.

"Now you chase me," he said.

He ran ahead until I caught up. I tagged him. He laughed again.

On it went as we circled the block.

So much for needing a plan.

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Graham became excited when a little boy entered the play area this evening.

"Daddy, it's another boy," he called out.

Graham said "Hi" and waved several times as the boy climbed up the stairs toward him. Eventually, the boy mumbled "Hi" in return.

Graham turned back toward me.

"He said 'Hi!'"

Would that everyone were so kind.

A week ago he told three different kids at a birthday party, "You will be my best friend."

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Graham and I did bedtime by ourselves tonight since Erica is feeling sick. We read books, said a prayer, and told a story. Our normal routine.

As I got to the point in my story where we order donuts, Graham became concerned about Mommy not being included. He "ordered" a donut for her, slid down the slide on his bed, and went to the bonus room to deliver the imaginary treat himself.

"Mommy will be so happy with her donut," he said as he left.

He was correct.