Little Monkeys

Both of the girls have always been climbers... early on I gave up trying to stop them (it was a losing battle) and focused on teaching them how to do it safely instead.  Maya has become very good at it over her four years of practice and I really don't worry about her much.  She understands her limits and will carefully practice until she can climb what she wants to.  Unfortunately, Laurel just wants to do what her sister does and has no concept of heights, danger or limits.  This has made for some big fits at the playground.

Mastering the rock walls.

She has mastered the ladders.

But became very upset when I wouldn't help her up the rock wall.  She simply isn't tall enough!

 

Following Maya up the "big mountain".

 

They even attempt to climb up the slide (the giggles are the best part of this video).

 

 

This is hard.

Sometimes the sadness is overwhelming and seems to come out of nowhere.  The memories of the past and the loss of a particular vision of the future never leave my mind.  These two help, their smiles and hugs are a continual reminder of what we still have.  Of what we have to look forward to.  Something I am trying to remind myself of each and every day.  I am not sure how else to get through this.

 

Heartbroken

Roy - Thank you for filling the role of 'brother I always wanted'. Thank you for welcoming me into your family with open arms and making me feel a part of it from day one.  I have yet to meet anyone else in this world who can apply a quote from Friends to any situation... I finally found someone who understood each and every one of my references.  I will never forget "Roy and Sarah's Weekend of Fun" and our discovery of the greatest salad bar ever.  We are very similar people, which is why I think we got along so easily.  Thank you for teaming up with me to pick on your brother.  I will miss you... I can't believe you are gone. 

Maya and Laurel - we will never let you forget your Uncle Roy, our memories will become stories that you are told often.  He loved each of you more than you will understand and was so proud of every milestone you reached.  He cried tears of joy the day each of you were born.  He carefully chose a special outfit for you on your birthdays, making sure it never included pink.  Although we are devastated that you will not be able to get to know him further as you grow up, we know he will forever be in your hearts. Our wish is that you will always be able to feel his love.  Hug your t-rex tight, Maya.