Hippo Birdie Two Me

It's been a fine celebratory time 'round here. Sept 18 I got a new grandkid, one Tallulah Grace, who is gorgeous in every way. Oct 1 I got to meet her and teach my son the fine art of calming the fussy baby by first quieting one's own breathing, become a non-anxious presence as you help the baby become non-anxious. She's lovely, charming, not at all 'fussy,' but she hasn't yet figured out how to go to sleep except by nursing. So if she finishes a feeding by filling a diaper, she then gets a few minutes of 'help me, I don't know how to do this.' During which we walk and bounce and sing, until suddenly she falls bonelessly into sleep.

I had a fine week with them and then an amazing weekend doing volunteer work, supporting the current group of first-year students at my grad school. It was great to be back in the energy of soul-centered education again. I am delighted to find that I can do the work with ease and grace, so I can look forward to doing it for the rest of this school year, one weekend a month.

Landed a California sublet so I can reduce my coast-to-coast commuting and spend more time in grandmothering, probably beginning Dec 1.

Officiated, with some of my Weird Sisters, at a wedding over the weekend. Found myself in hyperfocus as I gave the couple their vows. Lots to think about.

And then yesterday was my 65th birthday! Congratulate me, I became Medicare eligible while we still have Medicare. Also got some lovely comfort food and have plans afoot for a couple of peak-experience birthday presents from Dear Husband.

We're both really trying just now, spending focused time together, offering hugs, dancing, checking preferences with each other.

Life goes on.