Saturday, July 10, 2010

Introducing ... My brother's kids

Kaleb McKay

He's the oldest - 10 years old already, and still growing. He reminds me a lot of myself growing up: quiet and sensitive with a wild imagination that takes him anywhere and everywhere. He's a big fan of Percy Jackson and loves to learn about Greek mythology. He already knows a whole lot more than I do about it - it's all Greek to me! (I do apologize, but I simply couldn't resist - it's just so punny!). Kaleb also loves computer games, comics, legos, bologna, and, of course, his Auntie Debra, among other things. Recently, he's taken up karate, drawing, writing, photography, and directing, and aspires to be a stand-up comedian. When he's not distracted by his many ambitions, hobbies, and creations, he's also extremely helpful - the perfect little gentleman. I had a friend come in to introduce himself to the family before taking me to dinner a few weeks ago (No, I will not be blogging about it, and yes, you can safely assume that it was an awkward experience.). My brother, of course, stood up to shake my friend's hand. Kaleb was only two seconds behind him, holding his own hand and introducing himself. I wanted to scream with laughter and give him a big hug, but I figured it would probably be inappropriate, so I restrained myself. Bless his little heart, I love him!

Colin Joshua

The second in line. 8 years old. Colin is just about the opposite of Kaleb in so many ways. Fearless and extremely outgoing, Colin has friends wherever he goes. He loves all animals, but especially horses, and is determined to be a veterinarian when he grows up. Of course, it almost goes without saying that he loves to be outside. He's quite the dare-devil with a bicycle, and a gymnast to boot. It's incredible to watch him. But Colin has a softer side, as well. I remember a few years back, going through K-mart with Colin when he was just three or four; he found a pink stroller with hearts printed all over it and liked it so well, he held on to it, strolling around the store until my sister decided to buy it for him ... that didn't go over so well with my brother. Of course, he probably wouldn't make the same selection now. But he does do a wonderful job playing with his little sister, Abbey.

Chase Albert

Triple threat. 6 years old. Another boy, another completely unique personality. Chase is the athlete of the family. That's not to say the others aren't athletic; they're all smart, talented, and active kids. But Chase is the competitor. He does not like to lose, at all. He likes to be in control, and have everything in order, his way. True to form, he also loves cars, action heroes, spies, and anything "cool". I don't actually know what he wants to be when he grows up. That's something I'll have to ask him. Perhaps a fireman, or a superhero. It's so fun to watch his reactions to everything - he's just so animated. His little eyes light up and his eyebrows climb up - it's just adorable! Tonight, we watched The Spy Next Door, and throughout the entire movie, there was Chase sitting on his basketball bean-bag and just laughing away. I loved it! Definitely better than the movie!

Abigail Katherine

Affectionately called, Abbey Kate. Also known as Abbey, Abba-Dab, Sister, and of course, Princess. 4 years old, and going on 30. Someone asked me the other day whether I thought Abbey would turn out to be more of a princess or a tom-boy, being the only girl in a house full of boys. The truth is, she's already a little of both. To paraphrase my friend, she's the princess who can and will beat you up if you step out of line. She is definitely the boss, no question about it. Abbey loves dolls, dress-up, polly-pockets, tickle-tag, painted nails, pickles, and anything purple, pink, or shiny. Her collection of household toys includes a kitchen, complete with plastic food items, silverware, and dishes; a shopping cart; a high-chair; a vacuum; and of course, an ironing board (donated by her aunt for her 4th birthday). I nearly died of pure joy when she set her ironing board up next to mine the other week to iron with me. While she can be quite the little Madame at times (She could give a thirteen-year-old on her period a run for her money!), she's also incredibly sweet. Tonight, as we were watching the movie, she quietly went up to her mother and asked if it was time to turn the movie off and read scriptures. And when the movie was over she announced that she was ready for bed and reminded the boys that they needed to brush their teeth. What can I say? I love being an aunt!

To Be Announced

Yes. There is a fifth little Cox soon to be running around, but unfortunately we don't have a name for him yet. Yup. Another boy. Abbey was a little disappointed at first, but she's very excited for her baby to come. The official due date is the 21st of this month, the inducement is scheduled for the 19th, and we're all expecting a trip to the hospital any day now. It's very exciting. I can't wait to see what his personality will be like. It's just fascinating to watch them grow into themselves.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Adventure in the Great Wide Somewhere ... A Summer in Yakima

I write to you, dear reader, from my own little corner of the world - at least for the summer - in Yakima, Washington. I'm sure you're wondering how I find the time to blog amid such grand adventure. I would say it took great diligence. But I would be lying through my teeth (a curious expression, don't you think? How do you lie, or even tell the truth, for that matter, without it going through your teeth? But I digress.). As you're obviously eager to know what it is that I'm doing here in Yakima, I will tell you.

I spend about five to seven hours of each day checking math and entering data for a fruit company, and another hour or so waiting for the numbers to find their way to my desk so that I can continue checking math and entering data. Sounds fascinating, doesn't it? That's what I thought. But it pays well, and it's a job, which is better than nothing.

You'll be relieved to know that the rest of my time is put to much better use. I'm staying with my big brother and his family. I've even started excercising each morning - if necessary, you have my permission to seek medical assistance for the shock. And, as much as I hate to admit it, I'm actually starting to enjoy it. It isn't exactly fun, but I just feel good after I've gone for a run ("run" being a very loose term).

Today, I went with my sister-in-law to watch my nephews play tennis. They're taking lessons at a friend's home, which friend also has a pool and allows them to swim in between classes. I watched the younger two at tennis for a few minutes, then had a nice relaxing time at the pool with little Abigail, my niece. After drying off to watch Kaleb, the oldest, I returned to a not-so-relaxing game of "get-Debra-with-whatever-water-toy-is-closest-to-you," headed by Colin, the second oldest. I had a blast! It was the first time I felt like I had really been able to have fun with the kids since I got here.

I think I've done a fair job of rambling on, so once again, my friend, I bid you adieu until another blogging day.