Hi Rachel! So far it's felt pretty darn good. It is a weird world but I've decided to embrace it as an entry point to an audience - a place to hang art. And each blog post doesn't have to be perfect, or fit a business model (ACK!), or even be worthwhile to any one particular person. I can consider it a sketch in my sketchbook, or a piece of pleasing Fairy Food, because if it is true it helps someone (even if it's only me) and is worthy of being out in the world. At least that's my current perspective. It's a comfy one so here's to hoping it sticks around!

Hi Kristin! Echo does not seem to have the same social needs as Lea. She has Girl Scout events a few times a month, soccer, homeschool art class once a week, and maybe one playdate a week with our dear friends and neighbors, and that's it. She is super content to carry out her own plans every day and seems to really need a ton of time reading, playing imaginary scenarios alone, and listening to audio-stories. I'm thankful for being compatible in this way - I can't handle too much running around. We have other struggles re homeschool but the social angle isn't one of them. And you're totally right, you, me, and everyone else is "just doing the best we can". Thanks for the words and the welcome!

Hi Vanessa! A remedy is a great idea. I think homeopathy can cure anything under the sun. xo

Oh I wish that too! As for your situation I think your approach is perfect. If your son is ever bothered by the comments or reactions of others you can certainly give him lots of empathy for his emotions and then when he is ready give him neutral information about the situation. "You don't like it that people think you are a girl? Ya. That's hard. You want to be seen for who you are. I can understand that. Even though men and boys all over the world wear dresses, in this culture where we live, many people still think of dresses as something only girls wear. So when they see you in a dress they just automatically assume you are a girl too, without looking more closely or finding out for sure." In this way he has the information and can make his own choices (still) about what he wears.

You're definitely not alone Jennifer! Thanks for the encouragement. You give me strength to be vulnerable and honest. And yes, that horse! Slays me. :)

Oh, I'm so glad Lauren. xoxo

I agree. We think that by paying credence we'll make things bigger and worse. And feelings do get bigger with empathy, but they get big and POP! Sometimes we'll purposely juice up our girls so that they can just get it all out and be done with it, free of old emotions.

Yep. She's the best. xoxo

Yep, we're here! I do think that Santa Cruz folks have a certain way about them that other Santa Cruz-ans can identify. Even through words on the internet! Thanks for the warm welcome!

Thanks everyone! It feels so awesome to share this with you. I can feel your love.