When Clover moves, it is intense. We were watching and Susan observed that it looked like a scene from Alien. I was going to say it.
Something that I’ve really enjoyed has been interacting with Clover. I wasn’t aware of how much could be done, but we’ve often described what we do as playing.
Of course it brings me great joy that Clover particularly responds to me. For better or worse, I have an infectious laugh, which is sure to have made to their tiny ears. I’ve spoken to Clover on all kinds of subjects, including Wikipedia, places we will visit, my concerns of them learning conversational Japanese before me, and why accessibility is the basis for good web design.
The really special thing is the effect my hand has on them. We will see various body parts extending in four directions, spinning and piston-ing. Yet, when I place my hand on Susan’s belly, all is calm. We’ve experimented, seeing how long it takes before Clover will react again, and with different kinds of movements. Everything points to my hand having a calming effect on them.
It wasn’t until tonight, when I was reading a particularly disturbing article that I realized it had a calming effect on me, as well. My first reaction is to close my eyes and see my hand extending around this small person, enjoying the bond of shared love we have.
I think in some ways we will miss the logistics of me being able to wrap around both Susan and Clover at the same time. Without a wall of muscle and mother surrounding them, we will have to be more careful, but I am okay with that. I look forward to laying my hand on Clover’s body, connecting with them in times of stress and restlessness, relief and peacefulness. In those time, I am sure it will do wonders for both of us.