I asked Kike to get River up this morning. I was just too tired and knew I’d need my energy for the day ahead. Those two extra hours in bed were pretty nice. When did 8:30am become a lie-in? It’s funny how parenthood completely resets the definition of “rested.”
A Pyjama Day
I took the hint from yesterday and the grey skies outside and decided we’d stay home today. Summer was thrilled, she loves when I let her stay in her pyjamas all day, like it’s a little rebellion. The morning started quietly with both of them on iPads. Eventually I felt the nudge of parental guilt and thought I should probably get them off screens for a bit.
So we got some toys out, which is always a mixed bag. River got very excited when I said he could choose something from Summer’s room. Today’s pick: Pop-up Pirate. The pirate itself disappeared months ago. It took a while to keep explaining that it was gone but finally River improvised with his beloved coins. His squeal when they jumped out after I found the right slot, was worth it.
But toys are… exhausting. Summer can sit happily with her Sylvanian Families, creating little stories and towns. River loves the idea of toys but isn’t quite sure what to do with them yet and his attention span doesn’t let him stay with one thing for long. So I end up doing a lot of setting up: Mr Potato Head, Jenga blocks lined like dominoes in ever more complicated patterns, small play activities to see what “sticks.” It’s fun in bursts but relentless too.
“I’ve Lost My Best Friend”
Kike’s theory that River says “I want to go home” because he loves it so much is starting to wobble. He’s been saying it more and more, even when we’re already home. And today, a new phrase appeared: “I’ve lost my best friend,” complete with bottom lip sticking out. I think it’s from SpongeBob but I can’t figure out why it’s on repeat. Part of me worries it means something bigger but maybe, like most things with River, it’s just another phase that will eventually pass.
Rain and Restlessness
The rain ruled out the garden or a walk. I’d happily have shoved him out in wellies but River doesn’t like getting wet. So we were inside and after lunch I promised Summer we’d watch the newer 101 Dalmatians. River protested, of course: “I don’t like dogs.” But he coped for a bit, bouncing between his trampoline and the sofa cushions, occasionally using Summer as part of the obstacle course.
It was all fine until a headache hit me like a brick wall. Dizzy, disorientated, I had to lie down. River followed, picked up his iPad and curled up beside me without a fuss. Summer barely blinked, she’s so used to me needing to rest when I get sick. I woke up an hour later, dazed but grateful, to Halloween tunes playing softly and two children safe, settled and remarkably calm.
A Dash to the Theatre
Then I glanced at the clock and realised I had 15 minutes to get Summer out of her pyjamas and ready for the theatre. Cue chaos. Luckily Kike walked in just in time, handed me a Lucozade and checked to see that the theatre wasn’t too far.
We met my older brother and his daughter for dinner beforehand. Sitting down, eating something warm, I started to feel more like myself. Watching the cousins together was the highlight, they really do get on so well. Then it was on to theatre version – Number three of 101 Dalmatians. The girls were delighted, my brother spoiled them with little toy puppies and Summer went to bed tonight cuddling hers.
Not a theatre review blog but I will say: it was more pantomime than I expected.
Running Low on Spoons
Home just before 10pm and I’m writing this quickly before collapsing into bed. I hope tomorrow feels lighter. I hope I haven’t run through all my spoons already, especially with a full week of the children while Kike works.
Tomorrow we’ve got an outing planned but I think a very quiet morning will be essential. And perhaps, for everyone’s sake we give the Dalmatians a well-earned rest.
50 days of River 
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