Kids: they dance before they learn there is anything that isn't music.

~William Stafford

I am in Des Moines safe and sound and enjoying the Thankgiving break so far. I came home yesterday evening. What a joy it is to see everyone. Today was a beautiful day--the weather was gorgeous and I took advantage of it and gave my car a good cleaning, inside and out. This evening my aunt and uncle arrived from St. Louis with their two little boys (Kevan is 5 & Andrew 3). They are the loves of my life. I am proud to say little Drew is my godson and he is a doll. When they arrived we immediately went to the park--to swing, slide, & run. They bring me so much joy, as do they for everyone in our family. They are very different; Kevan is artisitc and very sweet, Andrew is all boy, daring, and wants to do anything that involves a ball. For some reason Andrew, from day one, has been my little buddy. There is nothing like hearing his little voice yell "Cousin Jenny, Cousin Jenny" and havin' him jump in my arms or ask for me to carry him or for a piggy back ride.

Here's a funny story: Tonight the whole family went out to supper and during supper Drew asked me to take him potty--so I did. So, while we were in there Andrew said he could do it by himself and standing up and then he turned to me and said "Isn't that amazing Cousin Jenny"? I just busted out laughing, as did the elderly lady in the stall next to us! (smile) Kids really will say anything! He makes me laugh so much with his innocent honesty & joy. They are constant reminders to dance & no matter what kind of day you had, they make you happy. I am fortunate that we are so close---I am grateful they are here safely & for the lessons they teach me. Their little spirits are on fire and it's amazing to see how much they trust us and the world. I'm pretty proud of the two lil' guys & couldn't love them more. They allow me to jump in puddles, play in the snow, and dance around silly without looking at me like I'm a crazy adult---but a fun cousin who will do anything with them. Well--we are watching Mulan, so I am getting off the computer so I can snuggle up with the lil' ones.

Picture: Last summer Kevan, Andrew, & Me snuggled on the couch watching a movie & havin' some popcorn