11 July 2009

cute conversation

I was cleaning up and overheard Grant correcting Evan...

Grant: Evan Henry Nichols! What did your mommy tell you?

He thinks that everyone's middle name is Henry just like his!

10 July 2009

visit with grandma squeeze

Today was an adventure. Grant, Madeline and I drove to see Grandma Squeeze for a few hours, as we haven't been to her house for over a year now. Her health has been difficult and we have had difficulty finding the right time to meet. We dropped Evan off to play with cousin Jen and off we went for a long drive, listening to a Little House on the Prairie audio book. Every time I pull into her driveway, I anticipate seeing her shiny white hair and her sweet smiling face greet me. And today was no different, except that my children were also able to share in my experience. While I wish I had been able to spend more time with her as I was growing up, I have always walked away feeling thankful for the rich visits we've had throughout the years. While I don't always see things the same as she does, I appreciate her desire to enlighten me and help me understand. I also appreciate her willingness to respect my thoughts and differences. This has been quite a year with so much grief, change, disappointment, loss, and brokenness within my spirit. Today I was able to share openly about my pain and today my grandma embraced me in a deep and loving way. I was brought to tears at the end of our visit, not sure when I will get to see her again. Her words encouraged me and I miss her smile already.

09 July 2009

the aquarium







06 July 2009

underpants!




04 July 2009

03 July 2009

camp out!







02 July 2009

30 June 2009

25 June 2009

22 June 2009

20 June 2009

Madeline said, "Let's not say 'doggone it' in front of dogs so we don't hurt their feelings."

17 June 2009

summer days



16 June 2009

sweetness