Our kids became brothers and sisters. It was constant chaos and noise, but we wouldn't have had it any other way. A huge reason why Tae and Elea adapted so well to all the changes was their cousins. They had built-in play buddies, reading partners, competitors in our nightly walks, lunch and dinner entertainment, and audiences for their jokes. There were definitely some challenges and we had to have some honest heart to hearts, but it was all part of the growing process. All of my sisters (and sister in law) are amazing moms and I learned so much from them the past five months.
The last time Katie and I lived together I was 14 and she was 18, but thanks to COVID that was amended and we got to do life together for almost 6 months. I got to watch her love on her boys, balance running a house, be an amazing wife, and she even practiced her counseling degree on me as I processed so many feelings. She selflessly watched Tae and Elea, patiently waited to start board games or Top Chef, and saved some Netflix and Chill for me while I was on work calls at all hours of the day and night. We had some epic games of Code Names (riky-tiky) and Azul as well as some great conversations with Katie and Larry about all that is happening in our world.
We had lots of trips to the Campbells, movie nights with the "big cousins" and even explored in the woods with them. Elea looks up to Whitney and an enamored glaze came over her eyes when Whit came over. I had to do Elea's hair just like Whitney's and she loved being picked up by her. Jess and Matthew bonded over electronic music, it was fun to see Jess reliving his DJ days and Matthew soaking it all in. Justin sweetly helped all around the house and with the kiddos. We celebrated lots of birthdays--Tae's, Katie's, Whitney's, Justin's, Amy's, Mason's, Larry's, David's, and just missed Lukey's.
We surprised mom on Mother's day and spent a week alone with Mom and Dad. She was shocked, we totally got her! Tae and Elea loved doing crafts, baking cookies, and swimming in the freezing pool. I enjoyed catching up with Mom and Dad, going to the post office, and walks in their hilly neighborhood looking for foxes and deer.
We braved the air and flew to Colorado. The kids had a blast with Grace, Aunt Hyesuk, Uncle Ben, Uncle Eric, Mimi, and Fafa. The Kuemmerlins were kind enough to throw a joint birthday party for all the kids complete with a pinata. I'm pretty sure our kids were born for the farm, they were fascinated by all the animals, beautiful view, and 4 wheelers. Grace, Tae, and Elea played nonstop and made lots of memories. Thanks to Grace our kids now request Jojo Siwa (even though they don't know any of her songs!)
As I look back I am about to have true 2020 vision and am filled with gratitude at the extra time we had with family. I am so thankful for such a supportive family and will look back at COVID quarantine with fondness at the opportunity we had to make memories together. I am fully aware this time has been hell for so many people and continually pray for peace, healing, and joy for those all over the world who are struggling.
