Several times a day, while i am working at the computer, Cooper will come into the office and try to convince me to play “soccer” with him in the hallway. Which just now reminds me, i used to do the same thing to my dad when i was young—we also played soccer in our small hallway with tennis balls.

Anyway…even though sometimes i am really getting into something, i almost always give in to playing with him, since he deserves some attention, and, my legs can use a stretch too. Often to buy myself a little more time in order to finish what i’m busy with, i’ll tell him to first go get “rattle” (the green plush ball in the photo) and “baseball” (the white ball behind rattle), and, if i’m really desperate for some more time, i’ll tell him we need more tennis balls…from downstairs. He then trots off with a purpose downstairs, and returns shortly later with at least one, usually more, tennis balls, which he then spits out on the floor, making sure i am completely aware that he is totally ready to play.

When i finally get around to starting on my taxes, i’m sure i’ll actually be looking forward to him coming around with his “wanna play?” face…