Making The Most

One thing I've learned in the past 22 months is that having a little one around causes you to make the most of every situation. You keep your emotions at bay. It's not in an unhealthy way, but in a way that keeps everyone on an even keel. Kids are so intuitive and they really play off their parents' emotions. So, even when things aren't going the way we want them to or the news isn't good, we make the most of the situation we're in to protect the little one we love the most.

This was definitely the case on our trip to MA. As we all stayed by Noni's bedside, the tone and words we used with Turtle were encouraging and loving. I certainly believe it helped Noni to hear happiness and warmth instead of only sadness. He held her hand, said "I Love Noni." It was bittersweet, but mostly sweet coming from a 22 mos old.

Typically on a week long visit to anywhere, I would fill my 1 gb memory card easily and it would take 5 blog posts to share the best of the lot. This wasn't that kind of trip. However, I do have a few that I would like to share. Making the most of the situation also meant enjoying Turtle for all it was worth. He was a shining light for all of us.

When we arrived in North Adams, my Aunt Lisa (whom we call 'B') had been there for a week with my mom taking care of Noni. Of course, she was excited to see Turtle and had done a little toy shopping in anticipation of his arrival. The big surprise was a Rody. It's this ridiculously cute inflatable rubber horse/pygmy donkey thing that you bounce on. It was an instant hit with Turtle. It was also an instant hit with Mama when she got to see Dada have to blow it up. In the butt.

There was a little bit of a learning curve for Turtle riding it. He soon realized he could bounce the highest and stay on the longest with a little assistance. Everyone in the family got to take a turn being his helper.

On Rody; Off Rody

Trying again; getting a hand from Dada

Letting Uncle Eddie give a hand; just an extra cute shot showing off his "t is for turtle shirt"

Even with Noni gone we tried to keep our Thanksgiving traditions in place. It was what she wanted and we all really enjoy it. In our family, Thanksgiving is our big holiday- the one we get together for. Mom and B worked tirelessly to recreate what Gram always did for us. The food was excellent and the spirit of the holiday was there. We all needed it.

There are always a couple sure-fire signs that it's Thanksgiving in North Adams.

The 1st is Eddie and Ali breaking the last year's Thanksgiving wishbone.

The 2nd is cases of Molson Canadian.