Winning Over the Kids

My poor uncle has been trying to win the affection of my children for the last three weeks.  When I was little he was so much fun, but you can't communicate these things to children.  Unfortunately, they have to discover how awesome a person is on their own.  He has tried giving them cookies, telling them stories, and just hugging them despite struggles and tears.  So far, it has been to no avail.  Tonight, he made big strides.

He was getting ready to feed the dogs, and we asked Tessie if she wanted to go too.  She was very excited, and Christian picked up her enthusiasm and ran with it.  I pulled some jeans on Tes, and put Christian in the stroller.  He got a little worried when my uncle took the stroller from me, but he quickly forgot his qualms when my uncle popped a wheelie.  I watched their little threesome walk off into the dark.  Just when they got to the edge of the porch Tessie turned to my uncle and said "Thank you Uncle Tommy."  She had no idea I was watching, it was completely unsolicited.  It melted my heart, and I imagine my uncle's as well.  It was a wonderfully beautiful moment, and one that is hopefully the start of many adventures to come.