Jackson's and Papa's Birthdays

This posting is rather delayed. We had scheduled the weekend of August 15th to celebrate Pat's 65th and Jackson's 1st birthday and everyone had their airline tickets. As you all know Audrey's surgery and subsequent issues changed that. We are profoundly grateful that all the kids and grandkids were home during that difficult time. To see the kids all supporting each other and surrounding Jeff, Steph and family with love was an amazing part of the weekend. God is so good - everyone was there when we rec'd the worst news we'd ever had and two hours before the California kids headed home Audrey started waking up! Knowing Jeff & Steph would have tons of visitors (and they did) we took Seth & Noah, along with everyone else, home for Sunday. We packed a lot into that one day.

Saturday was hanging out at the hospital. We had an area we called the Walter's suite. Noah takes 'reading over a shoulder' to a whole new level with Jake.

I'll take the right leg - you take the left. We can blow this popsicle joint if we work together.

Aunt Lindsey was wonderful at keeping kids entertained

Our day home started with a mini-baby shower for Jerilyn and our newest granddaughter.

Every girl needs a pink rubber ducky

With Audrey we started a tradition of giving a rocking chair from a local Amish funiture shop to each grandchild for their first birthday. Here Jackson is checking out his rocker.

This whole auto thing starts early with boys!

I love the look on Jackson's face in this picture. He is one sweet little boy.

Noah & Seth have been watching Uncle Shane too long

Katie getting some girl time with Aunt Christy

I have no clue what started the kids posing but Shane managed to get into the final shot. I love it!

The kids were instructed to go get Papa for his gift unveiling. A number of us had gone in together and bought a beautiful cedar glider and table so Pat could enjoy the patio & arbor he had worked so hard on. The mojito in Seth's hand is NOT Seth's by the way.

Making sure Papa doesn't go to the hospital on his birthday.

Yep, it's a five seater. You'd think these four grandkids all lived in a cave!

Some of the guys just chillin.

Shane & Christy gave Pat a beautiful telescope. He has had several chances to pull it out at night and we've seen some wonderful 'sky scapes' through it.

Katie had wanted to ride on Papa's motorcycle but we wanted to make sure we were home and able to take her on a quiet road.

The helmet is bigger than she is but she was ready to go. If you want to see the result of the louder and bigger than expected ride you'll have to check Lindsey's blog. I don't think Katie will be riding again anytime soon!


Seth practicing his 'aw shucks' farmboy look.

Lindsey getting a shot of Ryan and Ty with their sons. She has a great shot on her blog of the dads and sons.

kids being kids

Ummmm, Dad, maybe you should look behind us??

We had cake and ice cream after the sun went down. Jackson wasn't sure if he really wanted to share his birthday. One of the cakes is lying - pick which one.

Watch for Jackson's reaction at the end of this video. This whole family togetherness thing only goes so far!

Jackson sized cupcakes

Ok Papa - maybe I'll share my birthday party with you after all!