Who's the Bad Guy?

"TEN MINUTES!" Papa ranted. "You mean they won't get here for TEN MORE MINUTES!"

Yes, it was an impatient Papa, watching out the window of a darkened room, anticipating the return of the grandsons. We'd arrived from Wenatchee while they were out. His first plan was a hide-and-scare -- undoubtably the boys' favorite game.

"I think it's them...." and he scooted into the next room and sucked in his breath so he could close the closet doors. So as not to spoil the surprise, I hid behind a door in the next bedroom.

Apparently Mom had told them we were here, else they guessed quickly -- as big and little men will do -- that Papa was hiding. "Where are they?" "Do you think the bad guys got them?" "I know! I'll look under my bed! That's where I hide!" I had two hands in front of me so as to not get bopped with the door if someone slammed it, but I was also stiffling giggles at their comments.

Finally Papa jumped out and roared! They loved it, squealing and hopping up and down the hallway. Finally one sweet little guy asked, "Is Grandma here too?" He had to ask Papa two or three times, before Papa heard the question, but Grandma's ears caught it right away!

The weekend continued with romps and fights and tickles and dress-alikes. Papa now understands getting into his pajamas at 8 pm when none of the other adults do so. Luke's favorite choice at the announcement of "only 10 more minutes" was "Papa, do you want to fight?" Man, what's a girl to do?! Just sit back and enjoy the view! Men and boys playing with all the same toys!

I was proud of our little men, and loved just as deeply our little princess. She had fever and congestion as she broke her next two teeth this weekend. A little less smiley than usual.

But when I asked our birthday guy (Ian turned 5 a week before) about his party, he interrupted, "there's still some cake" and told me party details. He didn't think to ask if we had presents, but was fine with the idea when we offered. :o)

Mom and Dad are doing a great job! They are paying a price, just like all good parents who have set aside the fun of toys and entertainment geared only for adults. I heard several moans at the end of the day -- not all from Papa and Grandma. But the result is kids who really feel loved, who have parents that will laugh at their play instead of hollering and canning it.

Libby is a very easy-going baby, but this teething is really pushing her limits. A couple times she has wailed in a very uncharacteristic way. Makes her parents (and gramps!) feel sorry for her, but Ian is not sure. "We may have to get rid of her, because of all the noise," he offered. Jer and I in the front seat were about to burst. Eventually Jer told Joy, and she laughed too, then told Ian "Silly! We won't get rid of her. She's your sister!"

The fun of everyday life! We're so privileged to have bi-monthly peeks. Can't wait to see the other grands as well, and watch them all play together this summer.