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The kids and I are home in Colorado. On the airplane ride he would tell people, "I am going to see my daddy" It was awesome to see Ethan's reaction when he saw his daddy. He started running and yelled out this huge "DADDY!", gave him a big hug that lasted forever and then proceeded to start a game of tag in the airport ... it was sweet to see them together. Kaeli would not keep her eyes off him. She would smile her sweet smile and giggle at everything he said to her. Although, she would not let him put her to sleep! Mommy had to do it .. this better not be a trend that continues :-) I was exhausted, my body ached from the long plane rides and inability to maneuver much being that Kaeli was on my lap the entire time. Mike gave me some much needed rest laying on the couch and attempted to put Kaeli to bed for me (see previous sentence). He was so grateful to have us home .. you could tell he really missed us. It was wierd being the one "gone", usually it is him that leaves! I think the consensus is that I will no longer travel on a plane by myself with 2 kids unless a family emergency occurs (let's pray that does not happen). The kids were great, don't get me wrong, but it is just draining. Keeping my eye on Ethan in crowded airports, trying to pee with Kaeli in the front carrier, trying to unfold my huge, gigantic, enormous, awkward double jogger stroller while holding said baby in the front carrier and trying not to allow her head to bobble while doing so, entertaining an almost 4 year old for 2 2.5 hour plane rides a 1 hour layover, all the while again holding said baby in one arm either feeding, rocking, wrestling, balancing .. you name it! All in all, the trip was not THAT BAD. Both kids slept more this time than on our way out there (being that they did not sleep at all on the trip out to VA). On our layover I got Ethan McDonalds and after he ate, which he ate ALL of .. hungry boy, I let him run around the eating area. I am sure some people thought my child was undisciplined and a bit obnoxious but he had just been a huge helper with sissy and not to mention an awesome little boy on the airplane. I could not see not letting him exurt some energy in between flights. To think I get to do this all over again in 6 weeks when we return for my sister's wedding! haha

Anyhow, today has been a day of unpacking, cleaning, resting and being thankful to be home with my family. I love my parents and siblings, but my home is now here with Mike and the kids and I am so happy here. It is a beautiful late summer day with a cool breeze and that feeling that fall is one the way.

Thanks to everyone who allowed us to sleep at your houses, my girlfriends for a wonderful night out and great playdates, Meghan who took awesome pictures of Kaeli (which I will post when I get them), my wonderful grandma who allowed me to use her car for 3 weeks ... you guys were all so great! I am thankful for the time I got to spend with you all.