Farewell to Gregg

Back in October Gregg came home for a visit before heading to Europe. It was supposed to be a surprise visit. But knowing that he was flying to the Netherlands in early November, we were expecting him. My mother planned a get together for his second night home. Jason and I were watching Coleton, Chloe, Liam, and Kennedy. So we brought them along. Coleton discovered a new card game. He was quite successful at Phase 10. He won!! Mathew could not understand how a six year old could beat him. Coleton, of course, knew that it was his card playing skills that gave him a win over 3 adults. In his mind there was no other explanation. He was disappointed that there was no time for a second game. He wanted to take home at least 2 wins.


Kennedy enjoyed playing Phase 10. She had her very own card she could bend and chew. But she grew tired of the game after a couple of phases. She wanted to explore. After a while she went back to playing Phase 10 with Jason. That is until her bedtime drew near. Then she was no longer satisfied with sitting on laps watching others play. And her game card brought no comfort. She spent the next little bit trying to fall asleep in my arms. Unfortunately there was too much going on to succeed at sleep.


Liam enjoyed the play food. He began to empty the entire container. He was sharing his food with those in the room. That sharing spirit was brief. For soon after giving away much of his play food, he attempted to retrieve his prized possesions. In the end he decided that it was much easier to sit in the container while he played. It allowed him to make sure the toys remained in his domain. Heck! There also would be no need to clean-up, as the toys never left the container.

Chloe became very excited when my mom asked her if she wanted to play the Care Bear Game. Chloe and my mother played quite a few games together. Chloe was very kind to Benjamin. He wanted to join in the fun. Although I think his desire was a jealous attempt to make sure Chloe didn't supplant him with his grandma. Chloe also made dinner for everyone. She had a tough time as Liam felt all play food belonged to him.

Benjamin was not sure if he liked having other kids at Grandma's and Grandpa's house. He is not big on sharing his grandparents with anyone. But then what young child likes to share. Benjamin kept watch on all his favorite things. And he became very possessive of Grandpa's chess sets. In the end he discovered that he could tolerate sharing for short spurts.

I know I haven't talked much about my time spent with Gregg. It was great to see him. He is so happy in the Netherlands. Hopefully Jason and I will be able to visit him in the near future.

Better late then never

Since we published our first posting, we have had computer problems. I wanted to post our Halloween pictures from our get together with my family. I love getting to play with our nephews and nieces. Liam is always coming to me to have me play with him. The little man loves to laughs. We our lucky to be close with all of family members, it also makes it nice for Jared and Alicia because they get free babysitting.