Spring Cleaning with a Higher Purpose

Yesterday was report-writing day for Lou. She has a rough draft of a geography report due on Monday. It's a big project requiring concentrated time at the table. After I helped her color-code her notes to match her travel itinerary/outline, I quietly stepped away to let her writing become her own.

While it was clear I could (and should) step away, it was also clear that she needed my presence. So, I stepped back and began to clean the kitchen.

And I cleaned, and I cleaned, and I cleaned.

All the corners of my kitchen.

As I quietly scrubbed the cupboards, Lou would pipe up with a little comment or question about what she was writing. I would reply, or join in a little brainstorm, and then we'd both get back to our work.

It was a companionable time. And, as I scrubbed, I thought about how similar this was to when the girls were doing the "work of play" when they were younger.

The very best play came when I was busy about the house. My energy provided a bit of security that let them just disappear into their own imaginary worlds. I do miss their Old Fashioned Play.

Even as teens, my form-my presence-my energy, gives them freedom.

It's spring cleaning with a higher purpose!

ps: I also spring-cleaned my blog which now is reorganized and has a whole new look. Click on over and tell me what you think! (and Mom, by this post, I bet you can guess...I submitted my grant!)