Nothing better than kids and family 7/01/2010

This evening I spent a bit of time reflecting on my day as soft tears descended from my eyes. They were happy tears but at the same time sprinkled with a little bit of regret because of a life wish I couldn't enjoy.

I spent the warm afternoon with Jessica, her two boys and six year old daughter. They also invited my dog Foxy to come along to romp with Gretel and Hannah. Though the dogs biggest concern seemed to be where we were and protecting us from the unknowns in the yard, they did take off now and then to romp, chase, growl, bark, whine and demonstrate some playfulness when they didn't think we were watching.

Bryan showed me the two daily newspapers he and his brother Jonathan had written. What a joy those were to read! I even made the paper as a coming arrival. Their stories were entertaining and covered sports, comics, current events, an editorial page and, of course, advertising of the most creative form. They also disappeared for a bit of time to create todays edition so it would be ready when Paul arrived home. Can't have Dad come home without the daily paper!

The boys performed their own rock concert complete with air guitars and drums, smooth ballet time moves and ending with a chest bump. Strictly original! They splashed around in the water as Jessica and I enjoy some time talking about anything and everthing.

The family invited me to stay and have dinner. The tortilla soup was yummy and everyone pitched in to get the table set and the food ready. We chatted, ate, helped one another clear the table and the kids went out with Dad to play. They worked on soccer and baseball skills and Paul helped Julia with her bike riding. Jessica and I observed all from the porch.

When it was around 8, the kids showered and got ready for bed, crawling up beside us in the swing or one adjacent chairs and we all, Dad included, listened to the next Harry Potter chapter warmly read with expression by Mom. What a lovely way to end the evening and a delightful day with such warm and loving friends. Jessica was right, it does feel like family, for all of us and I am honored to be part of their and blessed to have them as part of mine.

Those memories made in that one afternoon and evening, will warm my heart for a lifetime.