WordPress used to host Bloganuary, where they’d post writing prompts for the month of January. I participated in it for two or three years. It seems, however, that they’ve stopped doing that, leading me to my next idea: using Letters’ Lounge as a platform to find writing prompts and share their responses.
I spent the better part of today working on it because, as it turns out, the files on my website server weren’t set up properly. A function of my impatience, I’m sure. In the end, I found a workaround to carry me for now, and I’ll pick away at it until it’s right, or at least better.
If you’re interested in participating or just looking in, head over to Letters’ Lounge.
Today’s prompt is: What does “showing up” look like for you right now?
Well, this is a tricky one to respond to after Hannah took on the bulk of the childcare while I tried to figure out what was going on with my website. She was incredibly patient with me, giving me lots of space and time to invest in the idea. This is only one of the many ways in which she shows up for me.
Right now, “showing up” is largely about our transition into parenthood. Initially, I understood my role to be ensuring that Hannah felt supported so she could take the best care possible of Emi. As Emi grows, I’m finding that there are ways for me to support her more directly.
It’s about more than feeding and changing her now. She is more responsive, following pages of high-contrast books and listening to them while being read to. She makes eye contact and smiles. She screams bloody murder when she’s hungry. Slowly, I’m able to play with her more, making funny faces and moving her about to make her dance. She’s becoming more fun. In order to enjoy this time with her, I have to show up by being present and participating in all aspects of parenthood, from laughing at her smiles and changing her diapers.
Leave a Reply