Tag Archives: Hair

Thank you

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Tooth-brushing, food-cutting, hand-holding, tear-wiping, typing, piano-playing, caressing, cat-petting, camera-holding, box-carrying, gardening, scratching, supporting, full-body-hugging, push-ups…

Yesterday, while walking at the beach, I observed an elderly couple enjoying their older grandchildren. They had the look of a comfortable pair who have been together for many years. Eventually I passed them by, and when I reached my turn-around and started back, I saw them again…she with her right arm wrapped around his waist–no space between them and their love.

The absence of his left arm only bothered me a little bit-but not for the reason you may suspect. It bothered me because it has been a long time since I have given thanks for how well my left arm works, and for all the things it helps me do.

Spike

It’s 6 a.m., my teenager is up getting ready to head to work. Boss in town, lots of work to do, up early. “Mom, can you do my hair?” At that moment, you cannot believe how utterly wonderful these words sound. “He wants me to do his hair!” I shout to myself.

It’s just a bone (as in, “Somebody throw me a bone!”), and yet it’s everything. A teenager doesn’t openly say “I need you.” Truth be told, it’s quite the opposite…less is more (parent involvement that is) is their motto. Give me food and water, and shut the door on the way out…is more in line with what they are thinking (and then some). So, call me crazy but, “Mom, can you do my hair?” sounds a bit like the angels are singing in heaven…and they’re singing my song. It’s going to be hard to make myself wash the hair gel off of my fingers…