World, big and small

I must ask, rhetorically, Who the heck calls us at 4:20 a.m. and let's it get to the answering machine but doesn't leave a message?! Grumble. At least there's coffee.

On a brighter note, we're planning Lola's 4th birthday, figuring out what to do and make. This is such a fun part of parenting, finding the things she loves. I checked out a 4 disc CD from the library called "101 Toddler Favorites" or some such title and did she ever love that! Watching her face as she heard songs she already knew was so affirming and poignant. It's as if she is discovering that the world is both big and small -- large enough that her experience is duplicated, but small enough that she can know it. As difficult as 3 and 4 are, philosophically and emotionally, I looooove being the mama of someone learning these things. And being the one providing her with this experience is priceless. It feels as if I am doing right, finding the things she loves and helping her into them.

And in Menomonie, it snowed! And we're planning our garden. I'm always looking for non-genetically modified seeds for our garden. If you have some and would like to trade them for squash or sunflower seeds (heirloom), please let me know. Lola and I are also looking for decorative stuff for the corners of the house, maybe something bushy that smells nice, and a red thing for a pot by the front door. Ideas? Must be hardy, and tolerate the Wisconsin climate (zone 4). Perennials and herbs preferred.