On Saturday we enjoyed our day together first at Mass for the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and then later in the day headed to a beautiful park near Quantico for a big picnic with friends. Caleb enjoyed some volleyball, Madge climbed the playground toys and enjoyed the ebb and flow of the swings as well as the sand castle-building. Pita had a great time chilling in the wrap with Mom or the Snugli with Daddy. And, I enjoyed talking with friends and watching the families' kids attempt to dunk their friends in the dunking booth. Madge, good job with your throws!
Sunday was another wonderful day with a webcam visit with Pa-Pa in Taiwan, followed by Mass, coffee, and a pleasant walk at Fountainhead. The breeze along the way and the rustling of the trees with the sunlight peering amongst the branches was a recipe for a peaceful. We enjoyed a leaisurly walk along the dock where lots of early risers were fishing. Later in the afteroon, Caleb and Maddy enjoyed a date to the ice cream store. (Thanks for making that possible, Grandma Mimi!) When Daddy and Maddy arrived home, Daddy made Pita and Maddy into "sandwiches" (i.e. squooshing them each between two pillows! on the bed. Pita, you absolutely love being in on the action! So sweet to watch. By the evening we were ready to enjoy a nice Mexican dinner with lime slushes and a triple berry pie, all in Daddy's honor. We give God thanks for Himself and His Trinity, for all priests who father us on a daily basis, for our own dads and their sacrifices, love, and devotion throughout the years, for our family members who father their own, and our dear grandpas, living and deceased, who have left legacies. Grandpa, I see your picture daily as it hangs in the foyer, and I give God thanks for your hard work, your sacrifices, and perseverance on the banks of Normandy. For, without your life, I would not have Dad, your son. (The other night we watched Saving Private Ryan. Wow, how did you stay focused and go on amidts the crossfire and fear? May Jesus bless you and hold you safe in His arms. Pray that we will one day be there with you. We miss you. I remember crying for you when I was only about 5 or so. Although I did not know you well, I knew Dad well, and I knew how much he loved and missed you. How could I not miss the one that my Dad looked up to and leaned on? I also longed for being with a Grandpa so loving. Happy Father's Day to you, Caleb. You are a man of true love. How many times do you say, "How can I help? What can I do? Put me to work"? Always. Thank you for your love. Most especially, thank you for your goodness to our girls. They love you so, so much. Jinks. So do I!
