Family Fun

It's been a crazy two weeks!

My California trip went well - I had one day to do research, and I got through everything, which was a huge relief.  On the downside, Tristan absolutely refused to take a bottle the whole time I was gone.  Tom had to resort to just using a syringe to get something in him.  Daycare didn't have any luck either.  Both boys were happy to see me when I got home, and Tristan just ate almost constantly that first day back!

Then two days later, we headed up to Minnesota.  I'm so grateful both boys are such good travelers.  We had a layover in Chicago and everything went well; both flights were uneventful, just the way I like them.  On Sunday, we went over to my cousin's house and had a great time eating, swimming, and catching up.  Ronan loved playing with my cousin's kids, who are close to his age and it was fun to see them love the baby.  My aunt and uncle were in town as well, and it was wonderful to see them too. 

On Monday, I headed to the U to start doing my research, while the boys stayed home with my mom (and dad, for part of the day).  Once again, I was able to get through things pretty quickly, though I ended up being really allergic to something in either the room or the papers themselves.  I quickly began to feel miserable, which was nothing compared to Tristan, who spent most of the time I was gone screaming and crying.  It was a mix of teething and steadfast refusal to eat, I think.  I felt bad having to go back again on Tuesday, but there was nothing to be done.  However, my aunt and cousin took Ronan and the kids to the zoo, where Ronan had an absolute blast!  He and my cousin went on a ride there called the Tornado, which, as Ronan explained it,went really high and then around.  :)  This whole week was a good reminder how lucky I am to have such a caring and helpful family.  I was able to finish my work on Wednesday, so I could spend the last two days at home.  On Thursday, we took the boys to the Fair, which was a lot of fun.  Ronan had a great time seeing the animals, especially the horses and the butterfly house. 

The ride back was fine as well.  We got in around 10 p.m., and Ronan was so worn out that he slept in till 9:30 this morning.  He might have gone longer, but I started sneezing and that woke him up.  The dogs are thrilled to see us and Ronan's spent most of the morning hugging them.  I think it's safe to say he missed them too!  Overall, it was a great trip.  Now it's time to gear up for the start of the semester (which is Tuesday, for me).  Back to work!