When the Kids Come Home

 I had a busy week, doing what? I don't even remember all of it. It flew. But one highlight that sticks out, is the randomness of my children's appearances. Now that they are all mostly gone out into the big, big world; it feels like a celebration when they are home.

Shaunti works here locally, at The Animal Doctor. She is preparing for Bible School and dating a very nice young man. She still lives at home with us but our dwelling is more a bed and breakfast than a place where she lives. She is that busy.

Toria moved out ages ago. I should be used to it, having her gone. But it still feels funny. Sometimes I feel like I can't fully breathe till she walks in the door. It's as if I have been holding my breath since the last time she was home. This is all subconscious thinking of course. Anyway. She pops in every now and then for the evening and stays the night. I am filled with great comfort. 

One day this week, Laife resurfaced after much time passing (I don't remember the last time he was here)  by popping in for lunch and stayed through to dinner. I happened to have made fresh bread and noodle soup for lunch. At dinner I made his favorite meal, Sloppy Joe, and sent the leftovers home with him. Feeding my guys makes me happy. Seeing Laife flopped on the couch and Bruce in his recliner, hearing them debate the buying of land and building of houses, brings me so much joy.

So today I gave myself the challenge of haiku. Haiku is when you can say a something with as few words as possible. There are three lines in haiku. The lines are five, seven, and five syllables each.  It is usually written about nature, to make you see the emotion you might feel walking through the woods...in as little as 17 syllables. This is my definition. If you are interested in experimenting you should study it for yourself. I think it is a great exercise for a writer to see how much can be said in fewer words.

                  When the Kids Come Home

                       Heart swells, kids return

                 My most treasured gifts they are...

                       I am mom and warmed.