Sister Love

My hope is that they'll always know it feels better to hug than hurt.

My hope is that they hold each other fiercely when they need love and understanding.

My hope is that they give each other space when they need love and understanding.

My hope is that they forgive one another for who they are and what they do.

My hope is that they'll make fun of me and Brian together. (For two giggling daughters are easier to swallow than one.)

My hope is that they'll couch their honesty with gentle compassion but that they'll always always always tell each other the truth.

My hope is that they'll hold one another accountable.

My hope is that they'll let each other be stupid and clumsy and crazy as long as they handle other people's hearts with care.

My hope is that they hold hands when they're older.

My hope is that they tell each other I Love You every time they talk.

My hope is that they still find each other as amusing and lovely when they're old bitties as they do now.

Beauty

I always think my kids are adorable. Pretty. Lovely. (Well, mostly.) Charming.

But sometimes I find myself almost struggling to breathe for a moment. My breath is literally taken away. I can't stand it. My heart hurts, and I realize it's because I'm witnessing a beauty I don't fully understand and can't live without. It's a good kind of hurt. One I find myself looking for in those hard or banal moments of mothering. Thankfully, they abound these days, and I am awed and humbled that I am witness to such effortless and innate beauty.

Grimley Lives

He would be so proud.

A Healthy Appetite

Punishment?

Nope, she's a healthy eater, this one. And she likes helping me unload the groceries. I turn by back on Phoebe, and she's usually pulling out the blueberries or chomping on a cabbage. Yee ha!

A Visit from Everett

This last weekend, we were lucky enough to have Nathan, Sara and Everett visit during a rather soggy "Summer" weekend. Even though Stella and Everett only see one another about once or twice a year, they got along famously. It was really fun to watch Stella so naturally assume the role of gracious and welcoming host. And Everett was a trooper in new and unfamiliar digs, playing, laughing and gaming like a pro. It's so gratifying to see Stella at this point in life. When I stand back I can really see all her (and our) hard work as far as manners, compassion and socialization. These kids are so capable and so sophisticated, and it's a real joy to observe. Thanks, Nathan and Sara, for making the trek. We hope to see you soon!

Father's Day

While this isn't the best picture (Sorry, Brian and Harte!), I really love how well it demonstrates how Stella and Phoebe are surrounded by such wonderfully loving men. In their presence, they are learning how to dig into life with gusto, hold a conversation with panache and recognize that they deserve a person's full attention and respect in this life.

And Happy Father's Day to Brian, by far the most committed, loyal and exuberant Papa I've ever witnessed. You've set the bar high, Brian, and I'm constantly amazed and inspired by all you bring to our lives. I love you.

The Graduate

Two weeks ago, we trekked down to Aberdeen to celebrate our beloved niece Hannah's high school graduation. This young woman is a powerhouse of determination and hard work, and we were so honored to be part of her graduation experience. And it was really cool to watch Tricia and Mike soak up all their hard work as parents. They've raised a beautiful and confident young woman, and we're all very excited for Hannah in this next phase of life.

(It was especially trippy for me to attend Hannah's graduation since she actually attended my high school graduation so many years ago. She was exactly Phoebe's age. What a gift to part of these cycles in life. And yes, I'm feeling old now.)

Of course, the grandparents were beaming.

And the not-so-little little sister was super psyched.

Aunties and Uncles cheered and hooted. (Okay, Cindie and I hooted. Bob and Chris probably clapped.)

And cousins smiled and entertained.

The dear boyfriend supported and loved.

The cousins snuggled and hugged. (Stella is in big cousin heaven here.)

And animal crackers (and a very attentive and loving cousin) afforded patience and calm during the ceremony.

The Scout ran laps (while Phoebe walked the perimeter of the field with total focus.)

And surprise, surprise - The babe charmed and amused.

Congratulations, Hannah Jo. We love you to the moon!