I have managed to find my imprint on Andie in the form of her finger- and toenails. That, her openness and her need for companionship are about all the two of us share. Andie’s driven, scheduled, ambitious, worried, a true Type-A.

Cody, on the other hand, inherited no physical traits from me, except for maybe his big eyes. Like me, though, he’s a voracious reader and yesterday, he said something that I identify with strongly.

I don’t get a lot of opportunity for one-on-one time with my kids, so yesterday was fun because I got to spend hours with just Cody, who does not ever stop talking, unless he’s asleep.

“Mom,” he said, as yet another thought occurred to him. “You know how it feels when a big word comes out and it just feels so GOOD to say it?”

“Yes, I do,” I said, practically overcome at this verbalization of something I’ve always felt myself, but never heard anyone say.

“Like ‘Louisiana’ and ‘tough,” he continued. “Those words sound so good.”

Definitely my child.

Sniff.

In what subtle (or even obvious) ways have you seen yourself in your kids?

It’s not going to happen though, folks, as I find myself sitting here feeling like I’m living among ice cubes with a headache that waves between pure fog and dull pain. No gems from me tonight.

So instead I decided to list some of my favorite words in the English language, some of which inspire me, and some that paint vivid mental pictures in my ridiculously active brain. It’s about all I can muster at the moment.

Here goes:

torn, rich, warm, gold, rose, shatter, glisten, fall, harp, comfort, jewel, green, lilac, grace, candle, weave, wonder, piano, wine, crimson

What words inspire you?