Smithfield Scoop

Well, we were startled by this sound early this morning.... (Oops! Tried to paste a video of a loud, crazy hailstorm, but it wouldn't attach...) It was quite the hail storm, complete with lightening and thunder - and lots of hail! We are afraid to look at the garden. We hope it survived the onslaught. We are trying to decide if it is summer - or spring - or winter here! This week it has fluctuated from temperatures in the 90s to high winds to lows near freezing to hail and thunder today, rainstorms, etc. The plants are planted, the strawberries have been ripening, so the hope for summer is still lurking in the wings. We are holding out faith that it is definitely around the corner!

I guess the photos will have to do since the video didn't work.

Oh, Lauren, you crack us up!!! We laughed and laughed about Wesley and Chet! You are really going to have to stay on your toes with those two 😁 

We had such a delightful time with Jenn and her babies while they were here! It was a special treat to be able to be chosen by one baby or the other at different times to be the caregiver. Quite the honor! We had a good time going on walks, watching the ducks, playing in the big tub, visiting the Bennetts, shopping and being outside. Rand loved playing in the sprinkler and the flower pots that only had dirt in them. That dirt was especially tasty. Jenn is a trooper. She goes and goes and goes, day and night to care for these babies. It completely exhausted Dad and me and certainly gave us a greater appreciation for Joe and Lori and all parents of multiple babies!

It was a sweet blessing to have a spontaneous family gathering while Jenn was here. Thanks so much to everyone for coming to play and to work in our yard. It is looking so nice and fresh and welcoming. We couldn't be happier with it or more grateful for all your help! It was very satisfying to watch the cousins enjoying one another so much. It appears that everyone in our group has a pal or two to enjoy when they are together. That provides great joy and comfort to these grandparents!

We have missed the company this week. It's always too quiet here after everyone leaves. Dad enjoyed driving with Jenn and the babies to Snowflake and spending a couple of days there, planting and working in the yard a bit. He always loves holding the babies and they seem to like to have him hold them, too. He flew home and almost immediately plopped into bed, exhausted! I attended a birth while he was gone and was quite tired myself. It has taken a few days for us to feel up and going.

It was a sweet blessing to be able to participate with Peter at his baptism. What a beautiful occasion, with a wonderful young boy who is determined to do the right thing. Even over the Zoom meeting, I felt a beautiful, committed spirit. Thank you for the invitation and opportunity to feel a part of the special day for Peter and his family.

We sure love you all and hope to see you again very soon. Come any time and visit!