Three Generations of Friends

We were so lucky to have a very special visit from Griff, Ryan, Leighton (3 years) and Dillon (7 months) a few weeks ago. It was so fun for Griff and me to hang out with our kids for two days and become better acquainted. It was the first time for each of us to meet the youngest additions to our families. They were here on a Thursday and Friday, so Seth and Ryan worked both days while the rest of us played, and we were all together for a few hours during dinner Thursday evening.

Norah and Leighton quickly hit it off and played really hard together. When I was putting Norah to bed Thursday night all she talked about was everything she wanted to do with Leighton the next day. And when she woke up in the morning the first thing she asked was, "Are they here yet?"

We spent a lot of time out on the play set, having tea parties and playing dress up. Our very content babies were happy on the blanket or just sitting around watching all of the activity.

We couldn't believe how much they look like us in these next two pictures. It could be us 31 years ago!

Before I tell one story that gave us a good laugh, I first have to describe Norah and Leighton's personalities a bit. Norah can be reserved, but is generally a rule follower and at the same time can be quite bossy. And according to Griff, Leighton doesn't really like to be told what to do (hmmm...where does she get that?).

So at one point Norah was talking on her phone and insisted that Leighton come and stand beside her. Somewhat surprisingly, Leighton agreed. While she stood there she put her hand on the play kitchen burner. While pushing Leighton's hand away Norah said, "Oh no, no, be careful that's hot. You can't touch it." Then as Norah went back to her phone call Leighton, while keeping her eyes on Norah, slowly slid her hand back onto the burner, then off again. Back on, and off. When Norah noticed what Leighton was doing she quickly turned the dial on the stove and said, "It's okay, I turned it off so you can touch it now." 

It was a short visit, but we made the most out of it and I really appreciate Griff and Ryan making the effort! It was fun to see Leighton and Norah play like old friends - perhaps they could sense that they are the third generation of a very deep friendship.