Times Two Plus One: Cousins!!

Dex insisted I take his photo during this highly complex pose... :)

I was just telling D.R. that this summer has been the best summer EVER... and I mean it! Sure, I vaguely recall saying that last summer (and, quite possibly, the summer before), but isn't it great to be able to say it over and over again and mean it? It reminds me of my cousin's great take on parenting and her remarkable ability to embrace the present while looking forward to the future. I tend to embrace the present so much that I dread leaving it. However, history should tell me that as much as I may hate the thought of leaving each good moment in time, there is usually an equally fulfilling phase right around the corner.... if I'm able to focus on the present and not so much on what I'm missing about the past.

Sure, we no longer have the sweet little sounds of babies, but we have funny, creative, affectionate children who adore playing together and who impress me daily with their increasing maturity and take on life. Indeed, I will always have wistful moments, regretting how quickly it all goes by.... but I will try to remind myself that my desire to capture each moment in time has nothing to do with wanting to stay there forever, but has everything to do with the fact that I'm probably just loving each phase (we're talking BIG phases here... there are plenty of incredibly challenging and fast-forward-worthy moments that pop up all over the place) of family life and parenting more and more. Anyway....

... a few more photos of a great visit home to see my folks and two of my siblings...