Forever Young!

There is something about Spring that is rejuvenating. Maybe it's the newly discovered sunshine that warms our skin, the smell of fresh greenry that permeates the air, or the screams of children at the park. The Wensuc Family was able to drink a bit from this fountain of youth over this weekend. Spring had Sprung in Highlands Ranch. In traditional Colorado fashion, Winter storms will likely reappear by next weekend :)

I love this photo because it clearly demonstrates the physical changes that Ellis is making as a toddler. For example, you'll notice that his hair is thicker and has more texture. Ellis'hair is still lighter in color when compared to Blanden's, but his hair is developing subtle hints of wave (though still pretty straight).

I don't know what I prouder of in this picture: Ellis's courage to go down a new slide, or Jeremy's kind assistance and patience in helping his very young cousin. I know that it may be easier or more fun to watch a Disney video or play Tour of Duty on X-Box, but both Jeremy and Gretchen have been great in playing with both boys. I am witnessing a very important relationship continuing to develop.

Blanden is more than capable of navigating down the slide safely on his own. When we first got to the Park, Blanden wanted some solitary "building-time" on his own in the sandbox. I could see Blanden's active mind as he discovered and tested the building qualities of wet sand. This alone time also recharged his social batteries. After about 10 minutes, we was ready to reengage with the family.

Blanden is definitely verbal. His unique use of language and his amazing way of assembling concepts is truly original. Blanden's speaking style does contain elements that he had inherited from both parents. There are times where I can hear one of  Katie's colloqulialisms freely pass his lips, or an emulation of one of my own tortures upon the Queen's English. In this picture, Blanden is just screaming as pre-schooler boys tend to do :)

Just moments before this photo was taken, there was yelling, crying, jocking for position, and other ritualistic attempts to establish dominance. When the dust had settled, neither son seemed to be worse for wear. Both appeared to be united in their conviction on focusing on some other object than their Dad's camera lens. This picture still works for me, though.

Impromptu photo of the Highland Ranch Clan. Thanks again for everyone's assistance this past weekend. I am grateful for all the energy expended in making the weekend enjoyable, but also making us feel welcomed at your birthday celebration. Blanden would also like to thank Grandma and Grandpa for bring up the huge container of strawberries. BTW, said contents did not survive the weekend :)