transitioning with kites

Fall has arrived and here in Chicago it has, for the most part, been sunny and beautiful. However, last weekend (particularly Sat) was gloomy and rainy, the sun poking out its face once in awhile. Mommy and Daddy decided to take Jackson to a park, a park with an open field to fly a kite. The wind was blowing; perfect weather for a kite flying adventure. We decided on Jackson Park (just south of us, right off the lake), which was fitting. We bought an Iron Man kite for a dollar at the Dollar Store back in June when we had to get a new tire and needed something to do with Jackson while we waited. Well, needless to say we were unsure of how this kite was actually going to fly. Jackson was in a funky mood, rightfully so with the changing weather. No one likes to stop wearing sandals and start wearing socks and shoes or needing to put on a jacket every time you go out side. But with that being said I love the transition from summer to fall (even if it requires gloomy, windy, rainy days). Something about wearing shorts and a sweatshirt or not sweating your a** off walking down the street or being able to watch a toddler fascinated with falling leaves. To me it seems like the year really starts in September and not in January (but silly me this is why we celebrate Rosh Hashanah!). I mean who wants to end and start the year in the dead of winter. Not me!  

We've spent two years raising and caring for Jackson full time and have loved every minute and am fortunate that Tony and I have made it work (through thick and thin). While figuring out our roles as parents in Columbus, I look back and think "wow, we were really lucky". We were lucky because we both had time. Time is so important. Tony was able to be around when Jackson hit huge milestones and also to dive right in to helping me at home. I've recently decided to take a job at the University of Chicago working with the Program on the Global Environment. My role will be part-time (with flexibility!). Although most of the job is administration type of work I feel like the program's mission and goals match my current resume trend. I start tomorrow bright and early. I have to say I'm a bit excited and hesitant. I'm already trying to think of how I'll have to use my time at home more wisely. Knowing me I'll choose to not run errands or go shopping because now I'll really want to make the most of our days. So my hesitation is NOT about working 20 hours a week or being away from Jackson. Its mostly about not being able to do everything (exaggeration) at our own pace or when we want to, but also about being fair to Jackson as he develops and grows. I know these are the struggles all parents make so I can't complain because I've had 2 amazing years with just Jackson. In addition, I'll be helping out (at night from home) with the athletic department on membership services. So much change in what seems like such a short amount of time. It will undoubtedly be a hectic academic calendar for our family but we plan on making it work (through thick or thin). We'll have to just fly kites more often!

 

 

 

 

Back to the kite. We got it up and it was so exciting. Jackson loved it but Mommy and Daddy loved it even more. If you haven't flown a kite in a long time (which I'll bet you haven't), go out today, this week, next weekend, whenever and fly one. Not only is it therapeutic - taking our minds off everything stressful - but it really brings out your inner kid, even more so then having your own child. After a windy, cold day of flying a kite we treated Jackson to a milkshake. Life is good!