A Different Kind of 1st Birthday

The girls woke up today knowing it would have been Grandpa Steve's 59th birthday- the first birthday we've had to celebrate without him.  Initially, they were a little skeptical about how that works, but a simple reminder that their grandpa is always in their hearts and memories was all they needed.  Eliana looked up at me, placed her hand on her heart and said, "I have Grandpa in my heart when I pick berries".  This happened to be one of their favorite things to do with him and it fills me with so much joy to know that she remembers.  Since it's not berry-picking season, we met up with my sisters for the next best thing: apple picking. 

 After gathering our fair share of apples, the girls and I headed to the back of the farm for some more fun.

 They did such a great job sticking together, which made my job a whole lot easier.

They never figured out how to move in-sync, but they sure had a great time trying.

 

Back at home, there were a few of Grandpa Steve's favorite treats waiting for the girls.  They insisted he was included in the picture . . . such a bittersweet moment.

 We ended the day sharing some memories, listening to a few saved voicemail messages and eating one of his favorite desserts.

October 3rd: you were both a challenge and a joy