Last night, Steve, Vicky, Autumn, Harrison, Jody, Savannah, and Lisa hung out at our house. What a great time! Steve and I decided to split and see a movie. We went to Elf. Entertaining Christmas fare, but kinda lame. It's always great hanging with our kids.

With 3 grandkids hanging around the house last night, it reminded me of what I learn from them for life:
1. If you poop in your diaper, chances are pretty good that someone will change you without much delay. I'll be putting this principle to the test in 20 years or so.
2. The younger you are, the more an adult will change his/her voice when communicating with you. The tone and the pitch is much higher than normal and sometimes sounds as if the adult is in pain. Children seem to like this voice...or maybe they're taking pleasure in someone enduring some pain? I'm not sure.
3. If you don't get your way, it helps to extend your lower lip and and crunch your forehead while squinting. Most people will react immediately and do everything they can to please you or meet your needs. I've already tried this manuever a few times today and it hasn't really worked well. I'll keep trying though.
4. If you tell an adult you love them and even give them an uninvited hug...the sky is the limit - they will be eating out of your hand!

One of my favorite poems about being a Papa:

A grandfather's love is special,
for it's a love that's grown
Through all the years of ups and downs
with children of his own.
He understands a grandchild's heart -
the dreams and wishes there -
He turns tears into laughter
with his gentle, loving care.
A grandfather's love is special,
unconditional, and true -
It's a precious joy and blessing
we can count on all life through.
by Emily Matthews

Let it be,
Dave