More please.....

First of all, happy 4th of July to everyone. We hope you are all healthy & happy and enjoying the holiday. The McDaniel clan arrived safely at Deep Creek, Md on Saturday. We've had a wonderful time so far. The weather has been sunny and cool (high 70's) and we're loving it. We've done a lot of hiking at the local state parks (Swallow Falls). My Aunt Dee, Cousin Richie & Richie's son Max came down for a visit & we went exploring & swimming at the local nature center. Actually, swimming isn't the word. Ben & Grace fell in while walking along the waters edge. We didn't have extra clothes so we dressed them in their jackets. (see pics on the link at the left). We've also been reading & napping a lot too which is a rare teat.
Our family is coming in this afternoon to have a BBQ for the fourth & watch the fireworks over the lake. It's always a beautiful site to see them reflect over the water. Tomorrow we're renting a pontoon boat (or a "party boat" as the locals call it) to go out on the Lake. Lots of jumping off the back of the boat & floating. A great way to spend a day in July
The kids have been having a lot of fun. Ben is sleeping on a sleeping bag in the same room with Grace & they really enjoy it. Ted & I often hear them talking to each other but they don't come out of the room & eventually fall asleep without us having to intervene. Ben's favorite thing about sleeping on the floor is that in the morning he can come over and wake up mom & dad, usually between 6-7am! We get to nap but not to sleep in.
Ben did have a seizure on Monday but it resolved with just one dose of Diastat. He was still off the rest of the evening but was his usually self by the next morning. The most amazing thing is that he's eating everything in site. Not only quantity but variety. Watermelon, cheese, hot dogs, carrots, blueberries. He's eating so much he's actually asking for more when we're putting him to bed. This is amazing for a kid who spent a year going to feeding therapy once a week. I really enjoying watching him eat. Sometimes when he thinks it's really good, he hums as he eats! I think he got that from Grace. My big hope is that he will stay as open minded to the new & different food options on the diet and that we'll find something that he likes just as much. But, for now we're just enjoying the moment. I think tonight after fireworks, we'll get some ice cream from the local creamery, YUM!