I keep wanting to come back here so often, eager to record, to type down, so I can revisit and remember in the passing of time. It used to be that blogging was such an exercise of reflection, appreciation, reliving --if you may-- of what my days had been like. A journal of our life. Then came Facebook, and now we went even further with "Instagram". There, succinct, an instant memory. On the old adage that something is better than nothing, instant glimpses of our many minutes have come to take the place of this here more extensive collection. And yes, I am buying into printing those out, even that is proving to be much more practical and affordable than my blog. But in those little snapshots of my day, I can't possible capture the flurry of thought and process that goes through my mind. Perhaps I need to burn the midnight oil a little more and give this a bit more attention. Perhaps I need to get on with the times and learn how to do well with my Instagrams... but while I figure out what I really need to be doing, here's a fresh serving of the last 3 to 4 months of memories.
Leonidas & Leo McClintock
My parents came for a month long visit in November! A month is a long time, but then again, it isn't. It was long enough for the children (especially the little ones) to get used to them. Long enough for my parents to be a part of the ins and outs of our everyday life. To see their grandchildren in their own element. When we have visited Guatemala, it's always crammed pack with places to see, people to visit, constant movement, and it doesn't afford the children or my family a chance to really enjoy each other with the nuisances of just "being" together.
It wasn't ideal, for sure. Especially for my parents, and mostly for my Dad who is so used to his routines. What I will never forget? seeing my parents laugh with my children. Having my Dad chase and be chased by Leo. Hearing all kinds of crazy, fun noises as the girls were bantering with my Mom. Seeing Victoria so confidently use her fingers to "speak" to my Dad.
We usually get to see more of my mom, in a way I have already grown accustomed to her being a Grandma to my kids and creating memories with her. She comes so much more often than my dad does. I don't think I had EVER seen my dad in the playful mode he was here. He had nothing to do but enjoy the kids and he did! That is exactly what I wanted!
One afternoon, we took a lovely (and chilly) walk at a nearby trail. We had a tailgate lunch of sandwiches and chips that we ate before taking the walk. It was super cold for my dad, but he was a trooper and enjoyed the walk with us. At least I think he enjoyed the moments the kids weren't making him nervous, Ha!
And as a thank you for visiting and good bye meal we made them eat frog legs!
Whereas we know these extended visits aren't easily made possible either way, we are very thankful to have had them here for a month and look forward to another time with them!