Daddy Time June 11, 2009

One of the best ways we can teach our children and make them feel special is by simply spending time with them. David makes Aidan feel special every time he includes him in a project or chore, which he does often. He loves teaching him about nature, sports and animals. Aidan, of course, adores his father and soaks up everything he says and does. David takes equal enjoyment in watching the world unfold before his three year old's eyes. The relationship between father and child is truly magical. No amount of money or toys could ever nurture the soul of a child the way that David is nurturing his son by washing the car with him or showing him a parakeet for the first time. I can't decide who is more in awe, Aidan playing with the parakeet or David seeing his son experience something for the first time. Do we have a future zoo keeper duo in our midst?

FISHING BUDDIES June 8, 2009

Doesn't this photo say it all? Both boys are absolutely gleaming with joy and pride. Patrick is an avid outdoors-man who is enjoying every moment of sharing and teaching Noah about his favorite hobbies. Noah is obviously ecstatic to be hanging with daddy in the great outdoors and catching some fish as a side note. I've heard about the famous basement at Noah's house. It's unfinished, full of daddy's gear and a perfect canvas for a child's imagination, learning and play. Patrick has some, shall we say, mementos from past successful hunting trips. Noah can now identify the deer, goose and antelope when asked. The brain and curiosity of a 14 month old are astounding. How wonderful that Patrick is sharing his love for his hobbies and knowledge with his little guy. I have a feeling that they have many a fishing trip in their future.

Red Crosier June 7, 2009

Clarence "Red" Crosier was his name. I'm sure you can guess where the nickname "Red" came from. Some of his red hair has trickled down the family tree. Although I never met my grandfather, I am reminded of him by those few highlights of red in my daughter's mostly blond hair. My father never had the opportunity to meet him either. My dad was only 6 months old when Red was killed in WWII. William was born while Red was fighting for his country. Sadly, he never made it home to meet his baby boy. My father was never as much as held in the arms of his dad. I have always found that particular fact to be heartbreaking, especially now that I am a mother. My father has been heartbroken and haunted by the loss of his father his entire life. He has made a point to know everything he possibly can about his heroic father. I don't doubt that when my dad is thinking about what kind of man, father and human being he wants to be that he thinks about his father and the kind of man he was. Although Red was not physically present for my father, he was and is a powerful and positive force in my father's life.