It seems as though we are indeed a storm "magnet" here in Paradise. As Central Florida breathes a collective, and exhausted, sigh of relief at the apparent passing of Ivan the Terrible (and it IS terrible... Cat 4 storms are borderline unthinkable,) tropical storm Jeanne has just been upgraded. Right now she's just causing mischief in the islands, but her track is ominous. While you're praying.... keep praying!

We made it through both storms with little damage, and during the second "big wind" changed our locale to the parent's home in Leesburg. Underground utilities are a beautiful thing, and we never missed a beat during the extended weekend.

Here are some snaps of our recent adventures with the boy.

A few of him sleeping. I never figured that snapshots of a snoozing baby would be so daggum cute.

Before I forget, we grabbed some funny views or our felines. The youngest, Saturn, has muscled her way onto Ryan's activity mat. The middle kitty, Jeremiah (or as this pic will attest... the Tripod!) is very affectionate toward the boy. He's a good egg, albeit as intelligent as a box of hammers. And he's a looker.

Back to our son, and his ability to charm the socks off of everyone he meets. Our parents live in a fantastic community called The Plantation at Leesburg. The neighbors have been unflinching in their support and prayers for Ryan's safe deliverance. During the aftermath of Hurricane Frances, they ventured over to love on the boy. He lapped it up.

Some of the most amazing gains have occurred during this time of meteorological upheaval. Ryan is cooing, and smiling, and generally wanting to look at everything that crosses his line of sight. He and gammy had some priceless moments, and the attention he got from Barb and Jack was heart-warming.

Here are two from a wildly animated feeding that gives one an idea of his growth.

This rather innocuous photo led to the onslaught of pics which follow. Mommy and son were so cute, I couldn't stop myself. Her smile was one of utter joy, and the boy did everything but do a model's spin for the camera. It's quite the progress from such inauspicious beginnings, but hey... God is in control, and wanted him to come home.

Where can gratitude properly begin?

May God watch over those in the path of Hurricane Ivan.

Posted by: Paul @ 2:34 PM