outing with daddy

• So, as the true procrastinator that I am, I waited until today to finish up Uncle Danny's wedding photos.  They come home from their honeymoon in Greece tonight.  I really wanted to have the photos done for their welcome home present, and they are!  I can't wait until they see them.  The photos truly reflect a day full of joy, love and pure happiness
• Daddy took you guys out for the day so I could focus on editing.  He took you to the New West Quay to play and walk along the river and get gelato
• Lila, of course you dressed in a knitted Christmas dress and mismatched rain boots.   It's only 30 degrees today.  Hahaha.  Daddy took your sandals which you happily changed into when you realized how hot it was
• Jane, this evening as I finished up editing my photos, you sat in the rocking chair beside my desk and chatted with me.  I love it when you guys sit there and visit because that's exactly why I put the rocking chair there.  We had a long talk about romantic relationships and marriage. I told you more of our love story...the part that's not so pretty.  Daddy and I have worked hard to break negative cycles and move forward in a positive way.  One of the most important things I learned through marriage counseling is that I own 50% of the problem.  You teach people how to treat you.  It's a hard pill to swallow, but you're rarely a victim.  I am not a victim.  You are not a victim.  You always have control of yourself and your behavior.  I hope I can be a empathetic listener when you encounter your own heartbreaks, because I've made plenty of mistakes and learned some pretty hard lessons, but come out a stronger (and kinder!)  person because of it
• Katie Bean, you were so excited to look through the completed wedding photos.  I love how much you love our family.  I love the importance you place on relationships and connections.  This will take you far in life and bring you the happiness that only deep friendship and true bonds can give