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11.07.2009

The long way home

It seems unreal that a year ago today was the journey back to the US. Today, 365 days later, I can sit and think, "Was the flight really that bad?" And then I went back to my post and laughed at myself as I read my account from that day (four days after the fact) and saw that, "Yes, it really was." For a good laugh, head back and read The Thousands of Miles Home yourself!

Funny how a year can cause a change in attitude. I stated (and am pretty sure that I meant it) in that post that we would not fly with our kids again until they were at least 10. And now I am in breathless anticipation of making that same trip home with THREE kids three and under...

Another thing that has changed so is the relationship between Kylie and Caleb. When we were still in China the "honeymoon" period began to wear off between them. Ian and I (well, mostly just I as Ian was up to his eyeballs in a deadline at work when we first got home) saw in the first few days, weeks, and even months a dreadful change in how they interacted. RAVs ~ Random Acts of Violence as we called them ~ were the norm here for quite some time. It was horrible and I was so concerned that peace would never prevail in our household again.

Thankfully, just as suddenly as they began, the RAVs one day ended. Oh sure, we still have a good brawl every now and then ~ what siblings don't? But most folks that see my kids on a regular basis would probably tell you that Kylie and Caleb adore each other. These days they are more likely to grab hands and take off running a few steps ahead of Ian and I, watching over their shoulders to make sure we're coming, than they are to have a fight.

And another thing I can count on? They sure do like to get into mischief together!

"Hey Mommy, look! I can hold Caleb all by myself..."

10 comments:

Lisa said...

I still can't believe it's been a year. I'm so glad your RAV are a memory! The last pic just melts my heart!!!

Rachelle said...

Love the term RAVs!

Excited to see you do it all again with Darcy.... not the RAVs, but the love that will grow with all your kids... PRICELESS!

Lilly said...

I so look forward to bringing Nathan home. However, not looking forward for RAV at our house. And that's one of the many reason I found your blog. The interactions on your family, to love a girl, then a boy and the occasional love and hate relationship between siblings. But mostly, the Christ centered foundation you are teaching your children. It is something, I always look up to.

The last picture is priceless and I will frame it and hang it up on the next Christmas tree!

Nancy said...

Wow, its just crazy how fast time is going! I just can't believe Caleb has been home a year. Its amazing how much he's changed and the whole family dynamic. FABULOUS! LOVE the photo. You are so blessed!

Jenn said...

Your posts just always make me smile...and wanting more! Love to hear about your two little ones. Can't wait until Miss Darcy is in the mix!

Laura said...

A year already? That's so hard to believe. They are so cute together! You've got a beautiful family.

Laura said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Hard to believe that was a year ago!
Aunt Cici

That is a precious picture!

Tricia said...

I can't believe it's been a year already either. That picture is cute. I saw the same thing in the school parking lot tonight. Adam picked Andrew up...of course he was upside down and Adam was sort of holding him by his ankles...is that considered RAV?

Melissa said...

It's amazing that it's been a year, but that last picture says it all.......the love between them is unbelievable!!!!