Family Dynamics

One of the most interesting aspects of our trip is watching how our family behaviors have changed.  We love our friends, but being just the four of us has brought us all closer together, since we don't have the distraction of other people.  Bryce and Laurel have gotten along really well, although they will occasionally pick on each other.  But mostly, they have collaborated together nicely on some of their projects. 

The kids have also been more snuggly with us than normal, which is kind of nice.  I feel like we're able to exert more of an influence over them.  On the other hand, some things they would do normally which we might have let slide at home push Sue and I to the point of saying something and correcting them.  Sue has come into her Emily Post personality on occasion, giving the rest of us pointers on proper table etiquette.  Plus, the kids have gotten much better at picking up after themselves for the same reason, as well as the fact that our flats have been relatively small, and clothes not put away are more obvious and annoying than usual.

Sue and I are enjoying each other too.  Yesterday, Sue made a really funny comment that is something I would have said, and it was extra funny coming from her.  Even my snoring seems to have subsided, or at least we've come up with a system such that it doesn't awaken her at night.