Trio

It’s not easy for Franny and Cole to understand what it really means to give thanks. They have everything they need, and always have. Someday I know they will be thankful for our wonderful family. Having always had these relationships, however, they really can’t conceptualize what it would be like not to have them. We’ve talked about what being thankful means, but without that perspective, some of the meaning is inevitably lost. Their understanding will come with experience, I know. And, while it is important to recognize the blessings in our lives, right now I am thankful they don’t understand what it means not to have love, family, a home, or food. No child should. One of the difficult things about children getting older, is that you can begin to foresee that someday they will be hurt, lonely, and go through challenging times. And, those experiences will shape them as much as the positive forces that we try to provide for them. But, for now, I am thankful that they are innocent and carefree and don’t have to understand all that yet.

Never been lonely
Never been lied to
Never had to scuffle in fear
Nothing denied to
Born at the instant
The church bells chime
And the whole world whispering
Born at the right time

--Paul Simon

Halloween was a very fun, but very full day for the kids. First, there was a Halloween-Birthday party for one of Franny’s school friends. There was lots of different crafts and LOTS of running around. It was the first party we’ve been to where the guest list was comprised entirely of girls. It made for a different dynamic, but was still a lot of fun. And, it was fun for us to see Franny interact with her school friends, since that is something we normally do not get the opportunity to see. Then, it was home for some quiet time before the kids got into their costumes and headed to the neighborhood community center. There, they did some trick-or-treating and enjoyed the festivities and music playing. At long last, we returned to our street for the big trick-or-treating event. They finished off the evening with handing out candy back at home, which was a lot of fun for them. It was great finish to a week long series of parties and fun.

Cinderella Franny

Elephant Cole

Little lamb Delaney

Our Fourth of July tradition once again brought us to Auntie Noelle’s house for a parade, BBQ, and lots of family fun. Although Franny unquestionably had a great time, Cole particularly enjoyed the parade, complete with horses, trucks, fire engines, and tractors. He also liked swapping hats with Grandpa, chatting with Uncle Bill and Auntie Noelle, and eating multiple partial pieces of candy. And then, there was running around the yard, swimming in the pool, checking out the new puppies, and eating a yummy hot dog. All the excitement, not to mention the hot sun, finally caught up to Cole, who fell asleep on Auntie’s lap, while listening to the sweet sounds of Uncle Bill playing his guitar. For Cole, days don’t get much better than this one.