Dave grew up in a loving but crowded house overflowing with cats, dogs, parakeets, snakes, fish, and gerbils. Early in our relationship, he told me he didn’t want any pets. Naturally, I brought home a kitten. “How can you hate a kitten?” I asked. … [Continue reading] about This one’s about cats.
Heavy
Last year, Willa invited a friend to play after school. In the car ride to our house, two third graders talked about an upcoming birthday party. Referring to the birthday girl, Willa’s friend asked, “How much do you think she weighs?” Before Willa … [Continue reading] about Heavy
Lord of the Bush Flies
Willa left for camp today. It’s a three-night trip with her schoolmates, but from the way the whole family is feeling, you’d think she just left for college. Simone, Dave and I keep reviewing the schedule. “I wonder what she’s doing now?” “It says … [Continue reading] about Lord of the Bush Flies
Run Bitch Run
There are two scenarios that require running: rescuing a loved one and escaping a mad man. So what’s going on? I blame Elaine. I met her the first day of school in Perth, when her sweet daughter took Willa by the hand and showed her around campus. I … [Continue reading] about Run Bitch Run
A Normal Day
Here’s the thing about moving to another country. It involves living in another country. At first, living in Australia felt like being on a tour organized by a sadistic travel agency. Looking to visit Western Australia? Step out of the guidebook and … [Continue reading] about A Normal Day