one happy kid

Well, there are two happy kids, really, but this is a short photo ode to Gabriel, with whom I have spent more one-on-one time over the past three weeks than in the entirety of his life up until Frances' recent departure for the greener pastures of Annapolis Elementary School.

I'm gaga for Gabriel. I feel like I'm falling for the kid anew, so forgive me for reveling in these lovey dovey days and sharing them with you. I have absolutely no perspective - and hence no shame. I hope it isn't too gross (I know, I know - stop the presses! Mama blogger's children are happy and she adores them!).

I have discovered, contrary to my fears, that being a second child is not tantamount to getting the short end of the stick. Having a big sister is pretty neat, and having parents who are more settled in their roles isn't bad either. That said, I do feel like it is finally Gabriel's time to shine in the sun. He gets lots of attention, he has more creative space to express himself without his big sister around to compete with, and he has enough distance from her to inspire wild running across the blacktop, shouting Didi!! Didi!! when she steps down the back steps of her school with the other walkers and car-riders at 3:35.

Greeting Frances today, who is showing Gabriel a sticker her new pal Halligan just gave her.

We usually hang out on the lovely playground adjacent to Frances' school if we get there early. Gabriel giggled crazily, so surprised and happy was he to discover he is able handle the big kid climbing challenges.

Speaking of new competencies...That right there, thank you to Milena, is a real bike with training wheels. He skipped the tricycle.

This is the kind of thing you need a quiet kitchen to accomplish.

Sometimes living in Annapolis isn't bad. This was taken today at the harbor downtown, just a few steps from where we pick up Frances. Gabriel woke up early from his nap and wanted to visit with the ducks before school got out. He told me every docked boat hailed from Delaware.

The yellow September light fits my mood perfectly these days. With a second child, one realizes how fleeting everything can be. Not that the future does not hold new, unforseeable amazements - but I am cherishing this particular moment.