Fall Family Fun

It's been a very exciting time around here lately. We have been very lucky to have Jordan's sister Staci her husband Lt. Col. Rich Gordon and cousins Ruby and Charly for two weeks. Every one to two years, depending on where they are stationed, we have an opportunity to reconnect and learn all the new aspects of each others lives. They have been living in Illesheim, Germany for the past two years. Jordan was able to go and visit, but Sam and I had to stay behind. They are now heading back to Oahu, Hawaii which is very exciting. They are moving back upon special request, but he will be deployed in the new year. It has been a very unique and special time for Sam to get to know Uncle Rich and Aunt Staci. Sam loves his this little family like the air he breathes. He knew they were leaving today and that he would see them for a little while and this made him very upset. I did my best to distract him and keep his mind off of his sadness. Luckily he was able to go spend the day at Grammy's house and do chores to keep busy. When he came home today, he held my hand and said, "will they miss me?" I reassured him that they would and that it's okay to let people go on their way and that it's ok to be sad.  I also told him that it's important to remember that we can call and check in. It's times like this that I am forced to remember how sensitive Sam is and how attached he becomes to people.

It's always nice when the family gets together for a family photograph. We just set up a tripod this time, but it seemed to work out fine. There is such a great sense of cohesion and I'm very happy for that. We will miss them very much, but we are excited to start making plans to go out and visit Staci and the girls while their Dad is deployed. Hawaii holds a special place for us and we have such great memories there with them. Ruby and Charlotte have been so sweet to Sam. Ruby has always been such an amazing cousin and friend. She is so helpful with him and has looked out for him. She teaches him new things. Charly and Sam have a unique relationship. They both seem like old souls when they are together. Charly seems to understand Sam and his intent and his level of imagination. She giggles with him and Sam loves to make her smile. He thinks her insulin pump pack is super hero cool and he loves that she plays with him and adjusts to his personality. Jordan and I feel they are such a positive influence on Sam and because we are in a constant state of renewal and adapting to their changing lifestyle, it's as if we're evolving with them and gaining a better understanding of their lives and their path. It's been a very positive visit.