They've moved

It took me about a week to get myself back together after they left.  We've been so blessed to have them here for almost three years.

My son took a job out of state, but still within driving distance.  He will be working in his field, New Testament manuscripts. I've very happy for him.  You can imagine how narrow the field is but he's found a niche and it is perfect for his blend of talents and abilities.

Still, the grandchildren.  Oh, I know so very many grandparents have never had their grandchildren live close, so I'm not complaining, just acknowledging my feelings.  So here are some pictures to commemorate the last few weeks.

Decided to put up some tiny solar lights on the swing set. Not perfect, but still fun at night.

We had some lake time at the local park. The kids love the lake!

Graduated from Kindergarten and third grade.

Lots of car rides with Puzzle girl, who loves these kids just like I do.

Saying goodbye with my best friend.

Pictures and more pictures of the day they left.

I hope and pray they remember these three years as some of the best of their childhood.  We have tried to be intentional with teaching them things and just having fun being together.  Lots of play days at our home, swinging, playing with the pup, making up games, scooter rides, easy-roller rides, lawn tractor rides and scooter and even push chair rides. Then there's been cooking, garage picnics, races, tag in the house, and our beloved and somewhat irreverent nightly made up stores of Wind and Prime finger shadow puppets.  There have been times when I've laughed until I cried.  I won't dwell on the times they drove me nuts and I yelled at them, although there were a few of those too.  This has been real life, but real good life. Times I will cherish all my days. And I hope they are old enough for these memories to meld into them so that when they are old they will still smile when remembering.

We will still make memories with them I'm sure, but it will be different.