April 30, 2016

Stephanie brought by some care packages for us a few days before we went to the hospital to have Ozzy.  There were so many items in each gift -- an Elvis pen that Steve deemed his new favorite, comfy cotton lounging pants for both of us, change for vending machines for Steve.  It was really sweet.

She, Kyle and Youth often give us hand-me-down clothes and Thomas toys and trucks that Youth no longer plays with.  I hope to continue this tradition with my babies, making sure that we purge toys often and 'gift' other kids.  It's a nice way to model generosity, and they do it well.

Their family visited us just two weeks or so before Steve died.  I think it was a Saturday morning...maybe Sunday.  I had no idea then if I would see them much any more.  After all, Steve and Kyle were the link.  And even on that day, it was clear to all of us, I'm sure, that things were going to change drastically very shortly.

On the day before Steve passed away, Marti and I took a short walk.  It was a really sunny and pretty day that Thursday.  Coincidentally, Stephanie was watching over Youth as he played at the playground right next door.  We stopped and talked to them for a minute.  Then Marti and I headed to Black Sheep, a little shop, where I bought Stephanie, Kyle and Youth a card...their beloved doggie had recently died, and I found the perfect card.  I never did end up sending it.

Today, I took the babies up for a visit with this nice little family in my old neck-of-the-woods.  Youth, who is four-years-old now, was really great with Oz.  They hit it off!  It was heart-warming to see Oz having such a fun time and giggling.  And Poppy was having the best time fixing trucks with little tools and watching Thomas.

As a side note, I've officially decided that Poppy will be a mechanic and Ozzy will be a chef.  Both of these professions align with their interests, can be lucrative, enjoyable, and very helpful for Mommy.

Only a couple of minor missteps during our play date, but nothing crazy...Poppy decided to pour out the ENTIRE big bag of Goldfish crackers.  In all fairness, she did end up eating a ton of them then.  At least they weren't all wasted.  

And then Poppy somehow hit poor Youth in the face with a toy.  He came out to me crying a bit and telling me that Poppy hit him.  His cheek was starting to get red.  I gave him a hug.  Kyle told him that Poppy probably didn't do it on purpose.  Youth thought maybe she did.  In the meantime, I called Poppy to come out in the living room.  I asked her if she did it on purpose.  She said, "Yeah."  Great.

You know, Steve was always so comfortable with people, and I am not often comfortable.  I'm just awkward :).  But for whatever reason, I feel relaxed with this family.  Plus, now I know how to keep Ozzy busy!  Just invite Youth over!

Stephanie took these pictures today.  I generally try to ask permission before sharing any pictures of children; however, I thought it would be okay to share just one with Youth in it since he is masked :).

Thank you for a really good day of play! 

Ozzy in a Youth-donated guitar jacket and dapper Youth hat!