We
regularly host friends throughout the year. It could be dinners, swim parties,
holidays, the lake house or play dates.
So,
last Friday night was no exception. We have been dining out, hosting, traveling
with these friends for years, probably seven years to be exact.
As is traditional for this time of year a bunch of our good
old friends get together for dinner. Everyone met at our house. Again with the
tradition - we had a Hurricane or two . . . and snacked on muffalettas and
other appetizers. We chatted and caught up for approximately 1 hour.
One couple showed everyone pictures of their new puppy that
is a poodle/labrador mix called a Labradoodle. He was blond and with such a sweet
face. His name is
Tyler,
after the city our friend grew up in and remains so fond of! This couple has a
high school junior and three older children either in college or out in the
workforce. This is their baby, so just like new parents they competed back and
forth about who had a better picture and who the dog loved more!
Another couple talked of his travels and her teaching. She
is a third year teacher to 24 1st graders - talk about scary stories! She
talked about what is expected of the students and how their parents undermine
the authority of the teacher with "You don't have to do that
homework" and "She can teach it to you tomorrow." My friend made
it clear - she gave the home work so the work can be done at home and she had
already taught this - little Susie wasn't paying attention.
The other two couples have 10 year old boys - who despite
being at different schools, in different cities and in different grades - they
are experiencing the same thing. We talk about how there is a real crush of
work now that the end of school year is coming and how the school is pushing to
make these boys ready for what is coming their way in middle school. These boys
are both disorganization, have feelings of being overwhelmed and just a touch
of Spring Fever. I will admit it . . . I have it also.
