Coming up for Air

The last couple of weeks have flown by.  Work has been hectic and busy and stressful.  Life has been chaotic.  It has been COLD.

Lately, Willow has been having trouble sleeping.  Well, mainly getting to sleep.  She gets anxious and she worries about things.  Now, sometimes they are the typical almost six year old things--you know, monsters under the bed, it being to dark in her room, needing to have a glass of water.

Other times...her serious side smacks me across the head.  She has asked about death and dying.  She has worried about going on a boat tour and sinking (when we don't have any such adventure planned at all).  Last night she was worried that when she goes away to college, she won't be able to find her way back home.  Most of the time these worries turn out into interesting discussions.  Last night we talked about what she wants to be when she grows up (a teacher).  Luckily, we seem to have a handle on this and I am sure that as time goes on she will get back to being able to go to sleep without the anxiousness.  But that seriousness...it is nice to see this side of her, this thoughtful side.

Michael seems to be getting the hang of teenager-ness.  He is also being less prickly.  He has been spending more time interacting with Willow like he used to.  Last year, he was kinda hands off with everyone.  Now, he is spending time with her on his own and helping her with her homework.  He is starting to get back into being that big brother that he usually has been.

I miss not being with them as much during the work week...and weekend time is short.  Let's be honest...my kids are growing up!  (and I cannot wait for April vacation!)