December 2019

Float Trip on the Caddo

We met a few families for a day trip down the Caddo river.  It was hot and the water was low, but we enjoyed getting to be outside with buddies.  It was Isaac's first time and he wanted out of mom and dad's canoe and in his own kayak badly.  The kids were sad it was over and loved it.  

Nora turns 9!

For Nora's 9th birthday, we celebrated post quarantine style.  All outdoor and very small but was one of our first times to see friends.  She invited 2 girls to paint cupcakes on canvases and decorate mini cupcakes of their own.  they swam, and then the Barnetts came over for a boat ride and baby Jack's first time in the lake.  Nora was worried that her birthday wouldn't be as special with covid, but it turned out to be (and I quote) " One of my best birthdays ever!"  Instead of a parade, because let's be honest we are all tired of those I asked for a short video birthday message and it turned out to be the most special thing.  Nora was touched by it and Franklin and I even got choked up at all of the special people in her life and ours as well.  It's a treasure for sure, just like our GIRL! 

Forts x 10000 were made almost every day and in every room.  Including the pantry.  The kids got to swim at Meme and Grandpa's pool, which really felt like summer.  Franklin got our adult bikes out and have been riding, and took the big kids on a trail and went downtown. We've lots of old movies on Disney + and nora has fixed my hair a in a lot of her own inventive ways. DF and I have done a lot of reading.  He's currently very interested in WWII and history and has been reading about Nazi Germany, etc.  I read a book with him about a Nazi survivor and it was tough stuff but he is fascinated by it and soaks it all up.  He's reading so fast that we can't keep up with new books.   He's listening to podcasts about America and smart phones and history and talks and shares it all with us.  His mind is beautiful and he's a deep thinker.  He's also enjoyed making dance videos and video games too! 

Other activities

The farm, fishing, hikes, swimming in the river, LOTS of walks, whenever we are outside together the bickering seems to stop and we all relax.  Therefore we try to be outdoors in nature as much as possible! 

Nora missed having sleepovers so I "spent the night with her" 

Baking has been her outlet

Boys have been golfing

games and puzzles have been fun for us!