July 11

We had Adam's parents and his brother's family over this afternoon for some pool-time and birthday celebrations.

It wound up being a really nice day to be outside, as the sun hid behind the clouds at times, which kept the temperature in a pleasant range. The kiddos popped in and out of the pool; the cousins were particularly taken with the raft Isaac and Brady constructed earlier this summer, and enjoyed "paddling" it with a big stick. (And then trying to overturn it when Brady --who is several years older and much larger-- took a turn to float.)

Since Adam's dad was one of the celebrants, Adam made a spice cake with homemade penuche frosting --Steve's favorite-- and we all enjoyed a slice with ice cream before the party came to a close.

I pulled out the tripod (like I do) and snapped a trio of group pictures -- one "normal" and two silly. This, obviously, is a silly one. So today, I'm thankful for family and parties and birthdays and pool time and lovely weather. And I'm thankful that God is a good, good God who provides all good gifts.

July 10

I'll begin by noting that I stole this picture from Abby, as I wasn't with them when it was taken.

With that said, the kiddos piled into Abby's car this afternoon to go on a sibling bonding excursion. They started out at Yogurtland for some frozen treats, and then headed east to play mini golf and drive go-karts at Boomers.

Although there was a bit of resistance from the junior member of the group before they left the house, they all returned in a good mood. So I'd call it an excellent use of money. (Mine, since I offered to foot the bill.)

Sibling relationships are unique and special. I know things will be different after Isaac goes to Wheaton next month, so I'm grateful that they took some time for one another in the now.

July 9

We're in one of those milestone-rich phases of parenthood.

Abby graduated from college. Isaac graduated from high school. And this morning, Brady and I went down to the DMW and he secured his permit. (Which was called a learner's permit when I was a kid. At any rate, it means he can now officially learn how to drive.)

It's rather unnerving to internalize the reality that my baby is now legally allowed to drive a car (or at least he will be after he takes his first behind-the-wheel lesson next week). It makes logical sense of course, since he's 15 1/2 and 15 1/2 year olds are allowed to get permits. It just blows my mind that he's going to be 16 at the end of the year because I can so clearly remember him driving the little cars at LegoLand when we went about 10 years ago. I remember how cautious he was; how he stopped  completely at the stop signs and waited for traffic to clear before making turns, even though most of the other children drove like maniacs. Adam and I mused at the time that he'd grow up to be a good driver but back then it seemed like it would be so long before he'd be driving an actual car... but here we are.

Anyway, since I'm mostly rambling, I'll just say that though I'm shocked by how quickly time is passing, I'm grateful for the milestones. Because watching my kiddos hit each and every one of them is a blessing.

July 8

I rather missed the boys' shenanigans when Isaac was at camp. Given how raucous and just plain noisy they tend to be, that reality surprised me, but it's the truth.

So I was gratified this morning when, after running out for coffee and then on to the store for glue sticks (for Abby) and eggs (for Isaac), I came home to find them like this.

Well, not exactly like this of course, since this is just a representative still frame. But I found Brady pursuing Isaac and jumping onto his back, and then twisting himself around into what looked like terribly uncomfortable positions. But they were both amused. And they laughed.

And I could feel the love. So as always, I am thankful to God for their bond, even if its trappings sometimes look a bit weird to me.

July 7

I love it when my kiddos get along. And today, the sense of comradery they share at times was strong.

It began with Isaac's return from camp. It's not unusual for Brady to avoid hugs, but he readily accepted Isaac's embrace when we got home from the airport. 

Then later in the day, Abby meandered into the family room as Brady and I were watching the World Cup match between Switzerland and Colombia. After they exchanged a few of their typical barbs, she got up, stood behind Brady, and began playing with his hair. The curling wand even came out. And Brady just went with the flow.

So anyway, for the blessing of harmonious relationships, I am grateful.

July 6

It's been a fun, lowkey evening at home.

We started off by watching the US play in their World Cup round of 16 match-up against Belgium (you win some, you lose some) over Chick Fil A.

When that ended, Adam turned on an old episode of "Matlock" and we watched that while savoring slices of leftover pie. 

And to complete my culinary adventure, I poured myself a glass of pomegranate juice and prosecco.

None of it was particularly fancy, but it was fun. And I am grateful for the time with my hunny and Brady.

July 5

Church this morning was really excellent.

It started with a thought-provoking message on Psalm 23 that perfectly walked the line between humor and truth.

And it concluded with a few minutes with this gal right here. Jen moved away to Texas a number of years ago, but we spent several years prior to her move as across-the-street neighbors. In fact, she had the distinction of being my on-call person to take care of Abby, Logan, and Isaac when I went into labor with Brady. (The morning he was born wound up being a crazy-frenetic one, but we both remember it!)

She's a gem, and it's always a blessing to be able to catch up a bit in person.