I'm Going To Miss Them

These kids...they've stolen my heart. That's a very timeworn phrase, but I really can't think of a better way to put it. And their Moms have earned my undying respect.

Tonight was the last ballgame until Spring, and we will not likely see them over the winter. They live in a different part of town, and a different school district. The Moms both work full time.

It made me sad.

So I made the most of it. I cuddled the baby and tickled her tummy and twirled her around and around, though my arms and back ached with the weight of her. When I finally stopped, she put her hands in the air, beckoning, and chirped, "MOH!" I didn't have the heart to deny her. She's been denied so much.

I asked the five year old if we could trade hair, because I've always longed for blonde hair like hers. And I have. I was an awkward young girl with brown hair and green eyes and freckles. I wanted so badly to be blonde and blue-eyed.

This child's hair is like spun gold. Cornsilk. Every analogy and metaphor you've ever heard for blonde hair applies to her floating, shimmering locks.

She replied, very somberly stroking my straight auburn hair..."But I like your hair. It's very, very smooth."

We discuss babies a lot, the Moms and I. They know I long for another baby. They know Husband is reluctant. Reluctant? No, that's not the right word. Completely and thoroughly OPPOSED, would be more like it.

They tease him about it, good naturedly. Overhearing, the five year old said,

"Why don't you adopt a baby? There are lots of babies and five year old girls who need Mommies."

And then she reached into my chest, took out my still beating heart, and wrung it to a shuddering, stuttering stop when she said...

"When I'm a grown up lady, I'm going to adopt a baby every single day. Maybe then there won't be any more babies without Mommies. Or big kids either."

Jesus.

Did I mention I'm going to miss them?

To those who've mentioned it...I did extend an offer to babysit. They've taken on three kids and I know they're still struggling to find their balance as parents. And the kids, sweet as they are, have issues resulting from the neglect they experienced. It's going to take a lot of time and effort to help them work through those things. So the Moms are tired. Happy, but tired. All parents need a break, but I think it's especially necessary for them. So..it's out there. I hope they take me up on it.