Trick or Treat

It's interesting seeing these two children grow up. A month ago they actively played together and chased each other. They have now reverted to playing along each other and not with each other. It does leave me wondering what the future holds for each of them and how their friendship will alter as each of them change. Will they remain in contact through the years? What direction will each take when they proceed to higher education.

This year Ben was an astronaut for Halloween. On the Friday before the 31st, downtown closes the roads to vehicle traffic so children can visit the local shops and acquire "Tooth Loosen-er." Ben had his first taste of candy so we walked to Whitman College to release his burst of energy. Ben walked ahead of us, well, mostly ran ahead while kicking the pile of leaves along the sidewalks. It's fascinating to see how cautious girls tend to be in comparison to perpetual motion.. I mean, my son or boys in general. As we approached a side street, Ben began to run and she immediately grabbed him to prevent him from crossing the road without looking both ways. I quickly captured a photo of the moment and rushed to help her detain Ben.

"Ben!" I said in firm voice. "You need to listen to her." He immediately looks at her and in a sincere voice says, "Sorry."

It's nice to see how she cares about his safety at such a young age.