LJ Idol Season 8, Week 21, The Straw That Stirs the Drink

[imafarmgirl]

I lean forward, tightening my lips over the straw. I blow and blow. The bubbles in my soda make a neat noise as the ice hits the sides of the glass. Across the table my brother imitates me. I have to stop blowing just to laugh. I am in stitches because there is something so funny about blowing bubbles

Comments

[n3m3sis42]

I identified with a lot of this. I didn't fit in with the other kids my age and they tormented me as a result. My mom was very concerned about raising me to fit in and be productive, and in some ways I think that was a little spirit-crushing. I'm sure it's hard as a parent to determine what is too much or too little direction and I'm not sure how I'm going to do any better.

[ellakite]

My favorite part of being an uncle was when I got to interact with my nieces and nephews when they were *VERY* young.

Because it gave me the "excuse" to act like a child again without shame.

This resonated with me deeply. Thanks for sharing it.

[imafarmgirl]

You're welcome. Thanks for reading.

Unfortunately I don't live close to my family so haven't really had the opportunity to watch my brother's kids grow up.

[similiesslip]

This line especially was so sad and beautiful, both at the same time:

"I was not supposed to crunch through the leaves in the Fall, build sand castles in summer, nor talk to my imaginary friend who had abandon me somewhere along the way."

I still like to crunch leaves and build sand castles.

And I agree, it's very hard to grow up and figure out society's "rules." I too know I should "want to fit in" but sometimes I still don't care. I guess I should care. I just get tired of it sometimes.

::hugs:: to you.

[imafarmgirl]

I still love to crunch leaves too. It's one of those things I am drawn to do when I get the chance.

[lawchicky]

I totally remember blowing bubbles in my drinks. I haven't done it in a long time.. though now i have the urge to try it again.

[imafarmgirl]

If we should ever meet that is what we'll have to do. My brother and I used to have contests of who could blow bubbles the longest. I also liked blowing bubbles in milk.

[whipchick]

It's so sad that we leave our childish things so completely behind - I hope you get to discover more of where they fit in your life now!

[imafarmgirl]

It is sad. Growing up is cruel. I still like to crunch leaves.