Larsen Lunacy: Hide Your Hearts Girls, Eli's Turning 2

A couple of weeks ago we had a wonderful visit from our daughter, Kelsey, and her little guy, Eli. At the time we celebrated Eli's birthday but he actually turns two on the 29th. Prior to two years ago the 29th has been a difficult day for me as my mother passed away on this day in 1993. Now I still have a certain degree of sadness and the memories of that day, but with the birth of Eli my mind is taken to a higher plane and I can't help but think of the fun my mom would have had with this little great grandson. More than anything she lived her life for her children and grandchildren. Grandma Lynn was one of those grandma's that got on the floor and played games with the kids and invited them into her bed for books and sleepovers. Even though many years have passed, our children have the fondest of memories of their Grandma Lynn.

I just love watching my wife, Holly, now playing the role of the 'fun' grandma. Holly has devoted her life to our children and now that we have grandchildren, it is so fun for me to see her interact with these special little people. We are blessed to have them close enough that we can see them regularly. Having Eli visit from Vancouver was so special for us. Watching him interact with his cousins is precious, his buddy - Walker, was disappointed today when I told him it was Eli's birthday tomorrow and he expected him to be here for a party and I had to tell him no. Anyway, long story short, having this quirky little Eli in our lives has brought nothing but wonderful memories and laughter to this special day.

Bruce and Kelsey are from a generation somewhat foreign to Holly and I and they both have strong personalities with unique tastes. Their little guy, Eli, is a unique blend of both his parents. He can make me laugh just looking at him and now that he can talk he is saying the funniest things and the funniest way. This past trip he was really into playing cars and it was fun to see that aspect of his personality develop and his imagination flourish. More than anything we wish we could be in Vancouver tomorrow to see this special little boy but we always look forward to the next visit or next phone call. As I'm writing this, Holly is having a laugh with him on FaceTime - thank heavens for technology. Don't know what we'd do if we couldn't actually see him regularly.

Included are a few pictures from this remarkable little boys life, so far. We love all of our grandchildren so much and they have given even greater purpose to our lives, getting older definitely has it's rewards.

Eli Bruce Chenuz, born Oct. 29, 2010


Danielle & Emma with new born Eli


Eli's First Trip to Utah 2011


Uncle Cory & Eli

Halloween as Newsie with his father, Bruce

Grandpa & Eli just hanging out

Eli, Future Dentist?

Playing ball with cousin Walker

Baby Eli with Grandma Holly


Eli consoles his cousin Emma, Utah 2012

The picture above displays one of the most special moments I can remember from our Summer holidays. Emma was sad and it was really important to Eli that everyone be happy. So he got in her face and talked with her until he had her smiling and laughing. Some talents and gifts are God given, perhaps this is his.