Park Day and Cousin Fun

The sweet cousins had a fun park day after playing at Alise's for Easter. Alise is quite the proficient driver of her little vehicle now. Jamisen and Lily, of course, were fascinated, with Jamisen wanting to "help" a lot. 

Once the kiddos got to Fairhaven Park, Jamisen immediately climbed up to the very tippy top of the play structure. It was fun to watch him aggressively pursue a new (dangerous) goal. 

Not one to be left behind, Lily also wanted to climb on the tippy top of everything but being slightly shorter, she needed to use some help. She was quite happy to stand on my shoulders and then head to get up to the very tippy top of the play structure. She was pretty proud of herself which in turn, made us all smile. 

Lily and Alise went off exploring on their own, like two little Miss Independents. They were sweetly caring for each other. In a rather dapper move, Jamisen helped them to cross the street safely, watching both ways for cars.

We had a great discussion on the way to school this morning about Donald Trump. Jamisen asked: "Mommy, how did Donald Trump turn out to be such a bad man."

It was a logical question. 

So, I tried my best to answer him.

The answer went something like this: "Well two main reasons: 1) He's never really had to work and work gives meaning and value to life. It shapes your character and makes you a better person. And, 2) He's always been rich. And when you're rich, people give you a pass and don't expect your best behavior and so you often sink to your base instincts." 

Then we got to talk about what base instincts were.  It was a great morning discussion.

Lily then piped up and said: "Mommy, I wanted Hillary Clinton to win. And God is stronger than Donald Trump. And He would win in a fight. So it might take time, but God is going to win." 

Out of the mouth of babes indeed. 

It's really great to have them in Montessori school. The kids are learning all about community and even commemorated the nationwide walk-outs to demand safe schools by walking out themselves.  This is what their teacher said about the walkout and how they handled it in an age-appropriate manner:

Students will learn that there is a nationwide walkout that will hopefully bring to the attention of lawmakers the importance of healthy school communities, how to build and nurture them, and the need for all children to feel safe at school.  During the walk out, we will spend seventeen minutes outside reflecting on our school and classroom culture, and what it means to have safe schools. 

Another thing that both kiddos learned at school is how to swing and pump their legs. Grandpa and Grandma were thrilled to see that Lily has learned how to pump her own little legs now and can propel herself forward on the swing. Grandpa was obviously inspired.

We love our little Lily and Jamisen so very much. It is heart-warming to see how much they love each other too. Our family is blessed.