11 months old

So 11 months came and went. I had all sorts of intentions of writing earlier, but life got in the way!

Riley is crawling like crazy...except now she mainly scoots. I think she prefers that way so she can carry a toy at the same time. She is constantly moving, and it's fun to see and so tiring! She sings with me in the car on the way to daycare. We know that she has rhythm because she bounces or claps along with the beat - of her toys, my iPod, music from stores in the mall - anywhere.
She is developing quite a personality - she let's you know what she wants and when, and she let's you know when you do something "wrong". She loves to try anything that mommy and daddy are eating, but you know quickly if she doesn't like it. And
I know that walking is just around the corner. Riley is pulling up in tables and chairs. She's definitley mobile. We have even had to install cabinet locks. It's so much fun watching her grow.

Another in Heaven

Another joined our children in Heaven last weekend. This time it wasn't a child though. It was my grandfather. A wonderfully kind and soft spoken man. His passing was too soon for those of us still on earth, but I think the boys may have been anxious to meet him!

I take comfort in the thought that they are walking him around up there - introducing him to all of their friends and showing him their toys. He gets to play with them now, and I'm a bit jealous.

It's odd now how different I look at death. I use to be terrified of it...avoiding funerals...ignoring those that grieved...not discussing those we lost...and never going to a cemetery. I don't "like" those things now, but I do have a reverence for them. I appreciate the lives we have been given and try to celebrate each day. Every loss that happens - from babies to great grandfathers - reminds me just how precious each moment truly is.

So I am thankful for today, for right now. I am thankful that I was able to know my granddaddy and the amazing man that he was...and is. Even through the tears I try to be thankful.