Many, Many Thanks

Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. Proverbs 17:6

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3

I am overwhelmed at the show of love from my parents and Stephanie (BB's mom). They not only kept a very big secret for six months, but also took charge of our four girls for seven (yes, seven!) nights. While I tended to view their childcare responsibilities through the lens of my own motherly duties of management and training and maintenance (that all sounds very tender and motherly, right? Or maybe it sounds a bit like running a factory?), all three grandparents took on the job with great joy and gusto.

While I was thinking through every what-if (What if 7 year old has a migraine? What if 2 year old won't sleep, or dislocates her elbow?) as we prepared to leave the kids, the three grandparents were planning field trips, belated birthday parties, books to read, stories to tell, and treats to be had!

I do thank my God for the blessing of loving parents. I am so, so touched and grateful for the amazing kindness they have always shown, and especially in this super-concentrated mega-babysitting job. I am so proud to know my parents, and my mom-in-law. It's wonderful to see how they protect, nurture, and treasure our children the same way we do.

Oh, did I mention that fevers and stomach virus added quite an unexpected twist to the grandparents' week? Eek!

I am both humbled and happy as a result of their sweet service to us. My words are not really expressing the depth of my love and thanks to them. Thank you, thank you, thank you is the best thing I can say!

Mom with my three big girls, during her visit to us over spring break.

This is my Dad with EG, when they dropped us off at the airport.

Gramma gives an impromptu lesson in face-drawing right there on the ottoman at bedtime.