Chores

Never are my kids so excited by the idea of chores as when we visit the farm. "Chores" on the farm to them means "adventure, things we don't do at home, stories to tell for weeks to come." And so when Travis asked the kids if they wanted to come help feed calves, the kids (not just mine, Leah's too) came running to their moms to find out if permission would be granted. We, the moms, held in our hands our children's dreams, will their hopes be dashed or allowed to soar into a great adventure? "Yes" we said, and then the scramble. Boots? Where are my boots! Snow pants, gloves, hats, my coat won't zip help me!! And they were off, disappearing from Grandpa's house before we could say "Goodbye, be good blah blah blah..." And then, instant quiet. I put E down for a nap and for the first time in a long time, sat down next to David on the couch. Wasn't crowded away by kids climbing and snuggling between us.

For two hours Travis had five young farmers who helped feed the calves, and whatever other chores were on the list. And somehow, after that eternity, he was still smiling when he brought them back, they all crowded in the back door of Grandpa's house still full of energy.