Summer Break, Week 7

On the morning of his birthday, Ty declared it must be a popular birthday because the local donut shop was sold out of all but glazed when Lauren went to surprise him with birthday donuts. My kid has no idea people eat donuts on days that aren't their birthday and it makes me laugh. Someday he will be ticked at me for this one.

Our son needed two vaccines on Monday and while we waited for them, he declared he is moving out. Ironically Makenna text at that moment saying she was looking at an apartment that evening. She may have a sibling roommate sooner than expected.

Ty is processing the loss of a child in our community to cancer. Everyone is. It's gut wrenching and so difficult to comprehend. Ty, who has always understood Ryan lives in heaven as an abstract concept recognizes the reality kids can get sick and die now. It's heartbreaking to watch him process this truth. As quiet tears stream down his face, he asks the same questions we all do. Why?

We are knocking all the wellness visits off our to do lists this summer with routine cleanings, eye exams and annual physicals. As result, we have been in at least one doctor's office every week this break. 

An ornery little brother informed the girls they don't ever want to ask Siri what 0÷0 is. Erin immediately fell for it and as Siri insulted her, Ty was doubled over laughing. His laugh was so contagious, we were all laughing with him well beyond what the joke warranted.

Lauren and I wanted to capture some quick portraits before she took Austin home this week. At 16 months, he is so busy I knew our only hope was to allow him to play. The clouds parted a little too much for the five minute session so I had harsh light to contend with and Mr. Austin was none too happy about the session either. Despite all odds, we managed to photograph his personality quickly.

Thursday morning I dropped Erin off at the airport so she could fly to Daytona for a mini vacation. And then we started the task of packing Lauren and Austin for their drive back to Texas Thursday night.  We are never ready to let them go but sending them off for an overnight drive with a fussy baby who is still tugging at his ears was tough. We don't have a plan to see them again this year because they have an upcoming move and are choosing to make their own holiday traditions as a family of three rather than fight to celebrate with all the extended families. I respect their decision, just selfishly want them close whenever possible.

Greg got home from El Paso this evening and immediately fired up the charcoal grill for a good steak. It's good to have him home and I hope our weekend is full of rest and recharging. We need it.