Written by Today we went to my mom and dad’s house for our weekly visit. The sun was shining and temperatures were in the low 40’s. The grass is still green and the trees don’t look as cold and barren as they usually would in December. Either way, the twins wanted to go outside to play. Upon conquering the granite front steps they inevitably head to the swings. Today was no different. Theodore was the first to swing today as Jacqueline will challenge him for the seat but withdraws quickly as she really doesn’t care much about swinging. Or at least she cares much less than Theodore does. He loves to swing. The higher the lift and the faster the pace, the happier he is. Typical boy, right? He will gladly sit in the swing and swing for several minutes until his seat comes to a complete stop. I was pushing Theodore and we were having a great time as he flew higher and higher. Meanwhile miss Jacqueline was off exploring the wild frontier known as Grammy’s yard. Emma, Jacqueline’s 4 year old cousin, was also parading around the yard, mostly as an authority figure. Although both of these young ladies would come across as ‘in charge’ while around each other.
Theodore finally gave up his spot on the swing and took off for the greener grass of riding a toy tractor down the driveway. Now it was Jacqueline’s turn on the swing. Usually this doesn’t last too long as it’s more of a public appearance to her than an actual desire to swing. Today was a little different though. I gave her some pushes and she enjoyed the speed and height more than normal. I got my head in close to her and retreated as she and the swing neared. She loved this and giggled openly. Then she told me some things in a language I am on the verge of understanding. I am pretty sure she was critiquing my pushing ability as well as telling me about the yard, the trees, the atmospheric pressure, the U.S. Space Program, how many times Chris Paul has been traded this off-season, the extended forecast, and her favorite moments over her first 19 months. Then a couple more giggles, a smile or two, and the word “down”. This was followed by her pointing towards Grammy and Theodore who were setting land speed records on the driveway. If you haven’t seen her point her index finger let me describe it for you. The point starts with a lightning quick motion from her hip to the full extension of pointing. This would be similar to the speed and conviction of an old western gun fighter. Short of the moustache and saying “I’ll be your huckleberry”, you’d think the draw of her pointer finger was equal to the likes of Doc Holliday. Sometimes she will really hold the point position to make sure her intentions are fully and undeniably known. When she holds the point position, she tenses her entire body with a hint of a knee bend, her pointing hand is firm and leaves a lasting impression. So, naturally, I stopped the swing and got her down before any scolding took place. Once on the grass she gently reached for my finger as to walk her across the yard. Somehow I think she appreciated my sense of urgency to get her down from that swing. Just a few minutes later it was time to leave so the twins could get their naps at home. Thus today’s adventure of the twins swinging at Grammy’s house came to a close.
Jacqueline enjoys her time to swing today
Theodore is grateful that December is mild enough to swing, even if it's a little chilly