Burgin Family Fun

This past week we had both of Stephen's sisters and families come to our house to meet babies and celebrate Leah's birthday (more on that in the next post). Patty and her girls came on Tuesday and it was just a special girl time. Anna Kate (Patty's oldest, 3 years old) is a very special little girl, and I'm not just saying that because she is my niece. She is a very aware and thoughtful child and has a special place for Leah in her heart. She is very good about initiating interactions with Leah, talking to her and bringing her toys. This, of course, endears her to me all the more! It's hard for young children to understand Leah's disabilities (hey, it's hard for adults to understand!) and to know how to act around her, but Anna Kate is not put off by Leah's differences. She loves Leah as though she were no different. And that makes this Mama's heart full. One of the most special things happened with Leah and Anna Kate. They walked together. It was the first time Leah had ever walked without an adult.

Anna Kate was very good about talking to Leah about where they were going.

Making sure Leah doesn't walk off the step.

Anna Kate is not the only one who loves Leah. Caroline loves Leah, too, but Caroline really loves baby Rebekah! She kept checking on the baby and would push her in her swing. One time, Rebekah was crying and Caroline came to her and gave her her babydoll to make her feel better.

Caroline says, "I'll hug you Leah, but you cannot have my babydoll!"

Rebekah got lots of hugs and kisses from Caroline!

Late Thursday night, the Hanks family arrived. As a side note, one of the blessings of God placing us in Norfolk, Virginia, is that we are now closer to family. Not only that, but our house is big enough to accommodate pretty much the whole Burgin family. We are very grateful to be where we are! Friday the kids had fun playing in the backyard and the park. Though taking pictures of 7 children ages five and under is difficult, we tried our best and, I think, succeeded.

Sweet Wesley, playing with Leah on her perch!

They had a great time on the slide, but they made it hard to take a picture of all of them enjoying it!

All 7 Burgin Grandchildren: Wesley (5), Leah (4), Cooper (3), Anna Kate (3), Caroline (18 mos.), Rebekah (15 wks.), and Colton (7 wks.)

Rebekah didn't look big, until she was next to Colton! Look at those cheeks and thighs!!

Of course, one of the main reasons for the visit was for Aunt Patty's family to meet both Rebekah and Colton for the first time. With everyone leading such busy lives, it's hard to coordinate time when everyone is available. We are thankful that it worked out this weekend to have everyone here.

Aunt Patty with sleeping baby Colton

Aunt Patty with bright-eyed Rebekah

Smash Kisses! (Do Rebekah's feet look huge to anyone else?!)

Smash Kisses!

Smash Kisses!

We had a great time with everyone, but there was someone who was definitely missed. Friday morning, one of the first things Cooper asked Stephen and me, was "Where is Uncle Andrew?" Unfortunately, the big kid had to finish up finals at school and couldn't be here. We were so glad that everyone else could be here, though. Can't wait to do it again!