Photo Challenge Failure

Kate and I looked at today's word, "shadow" and noted a very cloudy sky. We then collectively decided a random list of words is not the boss of us and opted to end our challenge. We are still going to seek inspiration in the world around us each day and perhaps take some photos. We enjoyed working together but all the extra kids in the house made the challenge feel more like something we had to do rather than something we wanted to do. The pressure is off. We're quitters.

I took a walk with a group of kiddos today. It was beautiful and the perfect way to wrap up our morning. I am always surprised by the people who pull over to question my sanity. Why is it considered crazy to take a group of happy kids out and about to enjoy the world around them? It's much crazier, in my opinion, to take a single grumpy child into the grocery store. Maybe it's just me.

These guys are buddies. I am glad they'll have each other a few days each week this summer. Where you find one, you will find at least three. Ty can be the independent one when he needs a break. I have always been amazed by his ability to self regulate his need for quiet time.

This morning's cuddle time with Makenna ended in a wrestling match for a kiss. Kenna wins every time. Clearly Ty was distressed. Smile. I love how each one of the girls has such a unique bond with him. He is treasured.

And finally a shot of our spoiled dog. Brutus has been completely freaked out by the new table for the kids because his bed has been moved. He is not happy about it. There has been an obscene amount of whining and moaning. He is such a stubborn old man these days. He has also learned when it pays off to be obnoxious. The teens are prone to slipping him treats when he is pathetic so pathetic he is often.

He took another nasty fall last night. This was the second in a week that required two of us to lift him off the floor. It's tough to watch him age and decline. We love this old boy. He's part of the family.