Oh what fun...

July 13th.

We have had a super fun week:
1. We discovered a great park in Wilsonville that has a sandy area, swings, a big mound to climb, and a huge rope dome apparatus. There are picnic tables and a large grassy area too. We discovered the fountains on our way home, so we will definitely go back and bring a picnic.

2. Kyle got a frog pool last week that has a sprinkler attached. He really loves the water now, although he prefers his pool water WARM. Picky, Picky. He has discovered how much fun it is it play in Mommy's plants too. I am amazed at how just the simplest of things mesmerize him. Kyle found so much joy in watching water drip from a hanging pot. Big smiles, arms reaching up, and a giggle or two. Pure joy right there.

3. Kyle had his first experience with Chinese food this week with Grandpa Farnstrom, since Grandma was out of town. He seemed to like the Kung Pao and egg flower soup pretty well. Rice is always good.

4. Saturday we went to the Beaverton Farmer's Market. Great market! We got Kyle some yummy raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. He really loves those blueberries. Craig got some cherries too. There is a water fountain for kids in the park off to the side, and music playing.

We also went to the library, right next door, for an interesting event of Chinese storytelling by Frank Chin, an author, artist, playwrite, and Asian American activist. He shared some children's stories with a small group of us. Kyle loved watching and listening to him. We got some recommendations for books to read. Our library opens again soon, so we plan to go take a look.

5. We have begun to take more walks the past several weeks. Craig and I found a nice 5 mile route that takes us (me really) to Dutch Bros. So, we go for a walk, get some coffee, and head home before it gets to warm outside. Lucy, our dog, gets some good exercise too. Our lives, priorities, and pace has really changed. We value time a lot more I think, and are living each day with more purpose.

6. Kate and Emma, Kyle's girlfriends, came over this week for some water fun and playtime. They are adorable, and BUSY. So much fun for Kyle. He loves to hug them and is learning to share his toys.

7. Speaking of sharing toys, he has spent some time at Jill's, who we hope will watch Kyle once Craig returns to work. She watches a few other children whom Kyle plays well with - easier to share someone else's toys.

We hope to hike Silver Falls tomorrow and take another trip to the park before Cindi returns to work on the 16th. Craig will be home with Kyle until he completes his job search. We will attach some photos in the next day or two.

Hope everyone is well and enjoying the great weather. Summer has finally arrived!

Blessings,
CCK