Sibling Dates and Such

Erin has always been great about taking Kate and Ty out on her day off. The kids love their Erin dates. She makes the time as simple as an hour at the park to lunch and shopping. They've grown to look forward to it and ask about excursions if a few weeks have passed between outings. Lauren gained her license last month and was ready to initiate dates with her little siblings as well. The weather successfully post-poned a few attempts and her job keeps her busy most evenings after school. So for the first time, she took Kate to lunch and then the mall where they both parted with a little Christmas money last week. They wrapped up their six hour date with frozen yogurt. They both appreciated the concentrated time together. Then it was Ty's turn. He requested playtime at Chick-fil-a. He managed to talk her into a trip to the pet store afterward because they are kindred spirits. The good news is that neither were old enough to adopt anything.

I love the way the teens invest in their little siblings. They all come away with special bonds and little secrets they keep from Mom. I always know when they've had Pepsi but somehow the idea they are not telling me about it keeps them giggling. I pray the investment being made in those relationships now affords them the knowledge they will always have someone who's "been there done that" with Mom and Dad so they will always have a safe place to vent, seek advice and turn for help as they join the trying teen years. For now though, it blesses me to see them invested in one another. It makes up for all the moments that are less than endearing.

Kate took a page out of her date journal and hosted a spa day in my bathroom this morning for Devyn and Gleason. Both little girls were celebrated this weekend. Gleason turned four and we attended her birthday party at the movie theater. Frozen was really well done and even Greg who was begrudgingly drug along said it was a good movie. We both enjoyed watching Ty's facial expressions and hearing his giggles. Kate on the other hand, appears to have just experienced her first boy-girl date! We were clueless, as I have grown accustomed with the teenagers. However, eight year old girls should not be dating. Gleason's older brother, Cooper was practically sitting in the chair with Kate because he couldn't get close enough. They talked and giggled quietly throughout the entire movie. Greg nudged me more than once to let me know he was certain we were chaperoning. He was less than thrilled.

And Miss Devyn is officially potty trained. She is so proud of her big self. She says diapers are for babies and panties are for Devyn; however, in true Devyn style, the panties MUST match her outfits each day. I love that little girl.

Makenna was pretty excited when she walked through the door after school today. She earned a star award for being remarkable. She has worked so hard this year and her confidence has blossomed. We are proud of her. She's pretty pleased with herself as well.

Tonight I ran errands with Lauren and Makenna. During check out at Walgreens, Lauren belched so loud I turned on a dime and yelled, "NO WAY" in stunned disbelief. The guy working the counter behind us rated it a perfect ten and offered a golf clap in congratulations. I am going to miss Walgreens.