Happy Days

There is so much to be thankful for in life. As I scrolled through all of these photos trying to think of what to say all I could focus on was the beautiful bright smiles on my boys faces and of all the wonderful family and friends surrounding them. In these times of financial crisis and political smearing it is so nice to know that life's little joys can never be taken away. The delight of tickle tackles with brothers, picking pears, learning to fish, hayfights, learning to answer the call of nature outside, spinning really fast, the smell of campfire, a boat ride, finally being able to climb to the top, swinging high, splashing in the tub and laughing with family.

We have been fortunate in our many visits with family lately beginning with a visit from Aunt Laura and Uncle Toby in September where we visited our Tower Grove Farmers Market, ate chocolatey crepes, played on the playground and taught Simon how to play go fish with real cards. Then it was off to Trout Lodge YMCA camp for a Koebbe Vacation with Nana, Papa, Aunt Kristen, Uncle Rob, Audrey and Henry. We were so busy with the following activities: orienteering, row boat, bicycling, campfire, rocket launch, making candles, painting ceramics, tie-dye, pontoon boat tour, tennis, playground, pony rides, all in just 2 days. Whew, now I need a vacation. A 10 day trip to Louisville included the celebration of Amy and Nate's nuptials, visits with Oma and Opa and Grandma and Grandpa, meeting our new baby cousin Brando, and the wedding of Jessi and Clint on their picturesque family tobacco farm. When we returned to St. Louis I was in charge of organizing Simon's school's garden work day where we built storage for the garden space and made scarecrows. We also braved the crowds at the Obama rally down at the Arch. That was a great experience because even though we couldn't see Obama, we heard his words with thousands of others and experienced such great energy and spirit that really captures America through the diversity, generosity and cooperation of everyone there.

We are looking forward to the joys that autumn brings. Simon and I have already made his spooky skeleton costume so stay tuned for more pictures. I hope that those of you reading this are able to take away a little bit of joy that we have experienced and that you have an opportunity today to stop for a moment and find a simple joy in your own life. Sending you all love and peace.