(Preface: I am the Alexander's nanny)
It all began by me staying afterward in class to speak with my teacher about a few burdens I had concerning a friend of mine. It was good to connect with him. His counsel was wise and discerning, which I knew it would be, and I left with a better resolve than before I went in. Because of this, I got back to the house late. When I walked into the kitchen, I found Nikki (the mom) on the phone, talking to who I presumed to be Creighton (the dad) about the evening's activities, of which I knew nothing about. It's the mark of a true supermom when you can get everything sorted out, and everyone taken care of without breaking a sweat or losing your sanity. She juggled herding the kids, cleaning up dinner, refereeing the latest sibling rivalry, talking on the phone, finding a uniform, working out the beloved post-game beverages, and caring for the dog all the while looking beautiful. Many are called, but few are chosen... :)
The minute she saw me, I was greeted with one of her warm and welcoming smiles (still on the phone, mind you). As soon as I unloaded my third arm (i.e. my Bible and purse), I began to rummage through the pantry, in hopes of finding something appetizing for dinner. It wasn't long before I felt a tap on my shoulder. Turning around, I saw Nikki whisper something to me under her conversation with Creighton, and then graciously hand me a plastic baggy. Inside were two small baked potatoes ready to be reheated and consumed. Grateful, I accepted her generosity with a smile and a mouthed a big "THANK YOU!", as I did not want to interrupt Creighton's flow of thought on the other line. I prepared some vegetables as a side dish to my potatoes and sat down to enjoy my meal. Moments later, I heard Nikki end her conversation with Creighton with their exchange of "See ya soon's!" Selfless as she is, she immediately turned her attention onto me by inquiring of my class. I proceeded to briefly tell her of the material we went over and my thoughts on the experience. But I quickly switched gears to hear of all the commotion was taking place concerning the family's plans for the evening. "Canon has his first baseball game tonight!" she said proudly. Excitement welled up inside of me at the combination of "Canon" and "baseball game." Before I could catch myself, I blurted out "Can I come with you guys?!" I could tell Nikki was surprised by my desire to join them, but was equally delighted by my interest. "Of course!" she replied. She gave me the information I needed to find the field, and was off to hunt down Canon's uniform. After I was finished, I washed my dishes and headed upstairs to put my stuff away. I had just enough time to give the family dog a sufficient "pet down" and brush my teeth. (Yes, that's right, I brush my teeth before leaving the house. What? Good hygiene is important to me. Don't judge.)
It was deja vu as I arrived at the park. The smells of the freshly cut grass, newly chalked lines, and broken in gloves overwhelmed me as I made my way to field #3. The memory of my own fielding days brought a smile to my face as I watched the little leaguers take their positions on the surrounding fields. As I approached Canon's field, I saw an energetic six year old running toward me, curls bouncing in the wind. Whitby is the Alexander's middle child; she is full of life--a complete joy to be around. She was making her way to the playground to find her little brother, Cosmo, while Nikki followed close behind. She gave me a hug and went on her way. Obviously, she was on a mission and there is no stopping this precious one once her mind is made up. I love that about her. Anyway, when I arrived at the bleachers, Creighton kindly greeted me with a hug. He was happy to see me, but even happier that his oldest child was experiencing his first baseball game. How momentous, I thought to myself. He pointed out where Canon was positioned and went on to tell me something about the first half of the inning. I spent the next 45 minutes chatting with Creighton and the other parents who engulfed the bleachers. I loved watching Creighton speak so highly of his son, and extol the very best will over him. He seemed to be on a roller coaster of emotions all night, varying between excitement and nervousness. His eyes were glued to Canon's every move. My favorite part was watching Creighton congratulate Canon after his first big hit! Creighton, Nikki and I all rejoiced by jumping up and down as we watched Canon dash to first base after making contact with the ball. After rounding home, Canon ran straight into Creighton's arms, where he found his father's abounding joy and affirmation. Creighton and Nikki are excellent parents. I love to learn from their amazing example of unconditional love. Finally, the umpire called the game and the players lined up to congratulate themselves. Canon's team won 10-6--go Wildcats!
As the post game refreshments were being dispersed amongst the players, Creighton received a call from Nikki who was at the playground keeping Cosmo and Whitby occupied. When the look of devastation overcame Creighton's countenance, I knew it had to be serious. Cosmo had fallen and cut his forehand on the cement. I assured Creighton that Canon was save with me, and the next thing I know Creighton is dashing off to find his youngest son. After Canon and I finished handing out the drinks, we made our way to the parking lot where we found Nikki driving off to take Cosmo to the hospital. Whitby was broken hearted over her little brother's state, and wished she could do something to help him feel better. Precious? I think yes. As we all piled into my little car, Creighton, Canon and I did our best to comfort her, but nothing seemed to remedy this distraught little girl. She was burdened for her brother and wanted to make things better. (She's such a nurturer. She'll be a wonderful mother someday.) We all prayed for Cosmo and Nikki and made our way back to the Alexander's home. Once inside, I made hot chocolate for the kids as Creighton bathed them and got them ready for bed. While enjoying their warm drink, we lightened the mood by turning the attention back onto Canon's big night. This settled everyone down quite a bit. Soon after this took place, Creighton escorted the children to bed. The rest of the evening I did all that I could to focus my attention on my studies, but it seemed hopeless. My mind was consumed with thoughts of Cosmo. As I lifted up one prayer after another, I waited for text message updates from Nikki on how everything was unfolding at the hospital. A little after midnight I received word that they were still waiting to be seen by the doctors. So it wasn't until 1:30 that I heard Nikki and Cosmo get home. A sigh of relief escaped my chest. They're home. Thank you, Jesus...
So, here I am, sitting in the kitchen, waiting for Cosmo to wake up, and riding out the final waves of all the excitement and commotion that took place from the night before. Today my plan is to dote on this little guy with even more love and affection than I normally do (if that's even possible--hehe). I hope that's okay with you, Nikki! ;)
Here's Canon after his first big game!! I'm so proud of you, buddy!
And Cosmo with his battle wound and stitches...
