44 on the 4th

It's my birthday. I don't see myself as a year older. I've simply taken a chronological step forward.

Over the years, I've developed a tradition of having all of my children pile on my back (or front, or feet) in a birthday pyramid. As a mom, I am the emotional support for my family. I like to know that I can still support them physically. It's my way of testing my strength and forcing myself to stay in shape.

In the early years of my birthday tradition, this was easy. No one weighed over one hundred pounds or stood above four feet tall. But kids don't seem to stay kids. They grow. Limbs stretch in all directions. The giggles that were easy to balance when they were contained in small bodies now shake the whole structure. I also have two who are somewhat afraid of heights. Did you know its harder to balance someone who is tense with fear? It is. Imagine trying to balance a five pound lumpy rock on your fingertip compared to a five pound pole. The pole will be easier because it stands straight and tall. The lumpy rock is uneven and its balance point is so close to you hand you have to constantly and quickly move your hand to keep it centered over your finger. Don't believe me? Try it and tell me what happened.

Anyway, back to the birthday pyramid. I tried several configurations. I regretted I didn't set this up on Sunday when my husband would have been home during the day. I could have set us up outside and not have a low ceiling to contend with. After several unsuccessful positions, I settled on having Sierra sit on my shoulders while Chase and Marina fought for space on my hips. Marina ended up in a fit of laughter that threatened to bring us all down, but we held on. Then we looked at the photos and had a good laugh. And really, laughter is what it's all about.

Stage 1: Nervous smiles. I did not realize they didn't take off their socks. It's hard to balance in socks. Chase and Sierra decided to dress up with hats. Sierra is wearing my hat manipulation derby. Chase is wearing a very old top hat. It belonged to my great great grandfather. Yes, I was nervous about it getting crushed.

Stage 2: Ta-dahhh! Notice the cats? They have no idea what's going on.

Stage 3: The worm's eye view. Looks like Marina is losing her grip!

I am now 44. On the 4th. I'm sure there is some significance in that. I have to think about it.