catching up

I have slowly become less and less interested in our blog.  Perhaps you have too since I haven't posted much in a while.  But for posterity's sake, I will play a little catch up.  We have been in Seattle for three months; it is incredibly beautiful here and we have enjoyed exploring all that it has to offer, but we are definitely still adjusting.  Adjusting to a new area, new people, lack of our close friends and family we left behind.  I know it just takes time to build a network and feel at home and comfortable, but to make it a bit harder, Harper and I just returned from a two week trip to Utah.  I have to admit that coming home after being surrounded by so much love and familiarity, in a way has felt like starting over--again.

It's a official, I am the mother of a toddler.  Harper took her sweet time walking on her own and made sure not even let us set her down on her own two feet until she was completely ready.  For months, she pushed around chairs and strollers, boxes and coolers and loved going anywhere she pleased.  She would cruise when holding onto mine and Brady's hands, but as soon as we would let go she would hit the floor so fast or insist we pick her "up".  People would tell me to enjoy the time she wasn't walking because once they start, there is no stopping them.  Well because Harper was already climbing onto chairs and tables before walking I really never noticed any downsides to her walking.  She was completely thrilled when she finally took the plunge and so were we.

missing Harper's salt waters and sunny days at the park

finally doing it!

I do miss my little Harper walking with her arms outstretched, often straight into the air.  I think she got so used to walking behind things, holding on, that once she was walking on her own she needed her arms out for balance.  She quickly become more stable and confident.  She hasn't yet mastered a run; for now, she kind of skips a bit when she is moving with excitement.

saying goodbye

In September we said goodbye to Brady's Grandpa Ashdown.  His decline was rapid and because we weren't home for any of it, I think we are both still in disbelief that such a strong, hard-working, vibrant man is really gone.  The three of us drove home for the funeral and were so grateful to spend a few days with Brady's family. 

 

I think Glen and Michele gained great comfort from cuddling their two granddaughters as we said goodbye to our Dad, Grandpa and Great-Grandpa.  Thank you for the stories, the laughs and your example of dedication, hard-work and respect.  We love you Grandpa Ashdown!

three generations after having said goodbye to the fourth, Great-Grandpa Ashdown