Family....

Yesterday the whole family came home for my birthday (today). Each year gets a little more poignant and I am amazed and touched by more reflections of life and the years. I remember leaving my parents home in Chicago many times and as my mother got older, she started to cry as we left each time. While it touched me and I knew I would miss her too, I didn't fully understand...until now. Now I "get it". As the kids leave, I, too, find myself misty eyed and often in between. There are so many precious moments that you know are so special ~and so fleeting. You see your life flash in your mind before your eyes...your children growing up so fast, the funny things they say, a look between you and then, especially when your parents are gone, -the fragility of life. These are the moments you want to hold forever.


Emma and her momma the kids playing...

the cute cakes that Lori brought....

Uncle Tim & Aunt Joni with baby Emma...

-she is too much fun to play with! She "talks" to you now, smiles easily and has a sweet personality!

Cooper in the playhouse...

and he and Bailey in the pool....

and the tents.

They get along well and it's such a pleasure to just watch them...

Doing art projects...

Emma just chillin'!

Chelsea, Brant and Bryden came a little later just in time for the festivities...

Bailey helping me open cards and presents...Chelsea, so thoughtful, planned a very special one.

Emma and mom...

A picnic for her too!!!

Bryden watched Cooper with cousin Bailey so wanted to play with Emma too but found out that little girls are delicate!

Mike and Bailey

so pensive...

Bryden, loves the pool too!

Patient Joni in the tent with the kids...

Brant and Bryden

It still touches my heart seeing my boys with each other....

They have always been best friends and still fall into that mode when they see each other. It's sweet to watch.

The only thing better, is to see them with their children. What a blessing!

I love a summer day and having family here is the best! Here are little snippets of the day...