Fridays at the Library

I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.
--Jorge Luis Borges

What can I say?  I love libraries.  I get a library card wherever I am living, even if my stay there is only very temporary.  I think you can tell a lot about a place by its library system.

Stacks of books, new and old.  Heads bent in deep concentration.  Whispered discussions, animated and alive.  And in my SAHM world, the kids corner: colorful, bright, not-quite-quiet.  A treasure trove of books for little minds to explore.  I love libraries.

Our family has been very fortunate in that Arlington has a superb public library system, with gorgeous branches--clean, modern, and well-maintained.  These days when I take the kids, I bring my shopping cart (saved from my NYC days) and let Skyler and Chase fill it with whatever books they desire.  25 books--40 books--even 50 books at a time.  I leave feeling like I've made out like a bandit.

One of my earliest outings as a new mom was to our central library branch for its "Baby Steps" class.  Songs, finger play, books and puppets.  Socializing for moms and babes alike.  Sanity-saving fun, especially during the too cold and too hot months.

Last week Friday, the tradition continued when I took Evan to his very first tot class (held at the uber modern Shirlington branch).  While he sat on my lap and I held him, watching him observe and soak in everything new, I thought how it doesn't seem too long ago that I did this with Skyler and then with Chase...how quickly time has flown...how precious are these simple moments.   Thank you, Arlington Library!

"Wite, wite!"  Evan loved pointing out all of the lights in the room.

Free play after class.

First time with kids his own size.

He loves this particular toy.  "Chango! Chango!" (Triangle, his fave shape)

Making new friends.

Flashback photo:  Chase at 17 months, Central library.  Oh, he wore those ducky Robeez until they had holes!

Flashback photo:  Skyler at 11 months, Central library.  Ay, those cheeks, those bagel-roll arms, those juicy thighs!  How I miss them!