Quadruple...

 The Owlet had a party in her honor today to celebrate four circles around the sun —well done. Sixteen kids and 14 or so of their parents came to share in the happiness. We joined her mama and papa in planning and putting together a party suitable for a child of her stature. It started mid-morning, and we served delicious locally made donuts, hot mulled cider, coffee, quiche, Swiss chard pie, hot wings, chips and salsa, mini pigs in blankets, and the happy food for kids, Goldfish crackers. 

 The Owlet said she'd like to decorate gingerbread cookies as a party activity, and that was an easy request to honor. Rachel baked 5 or so dozen yummy ginger cookies, and a sweet, sticky time was had by all. 

I got a little crafty and made a garland to go along with the idea. 

The bounce house was up, and Evans spent a lot of time and energy running around the pasture with 5 or so kids piled into a garden cart. Shrieks and giggles ensued. 

Robin Evans (2) was intrigued by the cake, but did a fantastic job restraining himself and never so much as touched that tempting sprinkle-covered ganache. 

When Rachel was a teen, our house was the "place" for her and her friends to hang out. I used to love seeing the pile of kids' shoes by the door. They'd play loud music, dance till the house shook, empty our refrigerator, and hang out for hours. I had a little flashback today. These kids were a lot smaller, louder, and less hormonal, but the pile of shoes was just as enchanting. 

Being a part of our grandchildren's lives is a gift that we never take for granted. Every time one snuggles in, reaches for our hand when walking, asks for help on the potty or a snack or to pretend we are pirates we celebrate a little. And for milestones like birthdays? We celebrate a lot.