SNOW DAY!

We had our first big snowfall on Friday and Saturday- the kids were so excited to play in the snow. Matt woke up early with the kids and finished putting together his basketball hoop (which he got for his birthday). Isaac was "helping" him and got a little too involved, and Matt finally said, "Isaac , just don't touch anything right now!" Isaac went over in the corner and began crying. Matt said, "Isaac, what's wrong?" and Isaac said, "You're not helping me to be like you. When I grow up I want to be just like you." Matt felt sufficiently rebuked and figured out a way for Isaac to "help" some more.
After the basket ball hoop assembly, we got the kids in the snow clothes, and went outside. Here are some pics: This is the snow fort Matt built for the kids...

It's a snow woman!!

Snow Balls!

Chicago

I was able to attend a conference for the National Association for the Education of Young Children in November. I went with 2 other teachers and colleagues and learned a great deal from the experience. As the date for the trip approached, I became more and more worried about leaving my children, but I couldn't get my airfare back, so I continued with my plans. Matt was wonderful with the children while I was gone (I've gotten quite a few compliments on how well Matt did Daphne's hair!) It was hard to be away and I missed my family, but seeing their faces at the airport made the whole trip worth while.
My plane arrived home early, so I walked outside and met Matt and the kids at the van. I opened up the side door and Isaac jumped right up and hugged me- he was so excited. Daphne was just sitting in her seat saying "Mommy" over and over again as tears welled in her eyes. I finally said, "Come here" and she ran over and hugged me. Matt came around and kissed me and I gave the kids the presents I got for them. They were so excited! As I got them buckled up and shut the door, I turned around and a man nearby said, "Well that was almost sweet enough to have another one! That was great to see."
I don't know if I will ever go out of town without my children again, but I will never forget seeing their faces (and my husband's) when I came home. I don't think I could possibly love them any more than I already do, but perhaps, absence really can make the heart grow fonder.