Big Love

Today while we were driving, Kiri asked me "Mom, what is bigger than the sky?"
The universe, I replied.
"Well, I love you as big as the universe" she said.
I melted.

(4.5 yrs old)

Girlfriends

How lovely it is to have girlfriends! Kiri loves her girlfriends...Luna and brianne

Mom, can I lick the bowl?

Making cookies with kiri. Learning more how to enjoy time together.

Perspective

They come every year. They cause stress, happiness, commotion, and merriment to name a few. The Holidays. This year I have been focused on one thing: what my perception of contentment is. In years past, it might have been focused on material items or lack there of, or on friends who didn't call to hang out. I've been doing some pondering. Does it really matter if we have 50 pairs of shoes or a really nice car? Does it really matter if we have the biggest, nicest house with all the most stylish furniture? Does it really matter how cool we are (perception!) in the eyes of others and in our own eyes?

I think about parents who's children are losing the battle to cancer at an age far too young. Would they give everything to have my few humble belongings and meager salary if their child was as healthy as mine are? I reckon so. When the December storms pass over the island, I think of all the families that don't have adequate shelter over their heads. I am humbled and grateful for my little home with little rooms on a little lot. It might not be a sight to see, but it is ours and it serves its main purpose: shelter.

It is all about perspective. I have enough. I am happy. I am loved. I am full. I am grateful. I am good enough. I am thankful. I am blessed.

Good Advice?

"Kiri, you would look so cool if you cut off all your curls"
-Lyon, 5

Gardening Hats

They are so lucky. One set of grandparents lives 15 minutes away and they get to spend just about every Friday night with them (oh wait, WE are so lucky). How wonderful to see knowledge passed to the younger generations. Grandparents are like treasures. At Papa and Lelo's they learn about gardening and chicken farming among other things. Of course, you have to wear your gardening hat when you go out to garden! (Kiri 4, Lyon 5) They love their special time at this house!

More Coined Phrases

Oh the joys of being on Earth for only 4-5 years! :

"Mom, do you know why I want to sleep next to you? (sniff sniff) Because you are warm and I like you" -Kiri, 4. Working it.

"CANYON BALLS!!!" (Lyon diving into the pool)

Ariki: "Lyon you have Yoga after school"
Lyon: "Yogurt? What?"