While Mommy's Away...

With the emotion of everything going on with my sister the past couple of weeks, I failed to mention a very important fact. Jeff, my wonderful husband, took care of the kids for four days - on his own! This might not sound like a huge deal, but it really is. You see, Jeff has never had the opportunity to watch the kids overnight by himself, let alone three nights. And while we had left Allison with my parents a few times, I had never left Daniel overnight before. So I wasn't sure how me leaving for four days was going to go over. I knew it would be a difficult task to feed the kids (and himself), get Allison up for school and out the door while also having to drag Daniel along for the ride, keep the kids happy and occupied for four days, and manage to not destroy the house in the process. I must say, the mission was accomplished and the house was in somewhat decent shape when I returned (the dishwasher had even been run!).

Jeff managed to keep busy with all the events that I had planned on attending. He was even brave enough to take the kids to a play date at my friend Karen's house and hang out with all the moms. In fact, I think he rather enjoyed it. He also spent time with my dad and dined at my aunt and uncles. There was also a carnival at Allison's school on afternoon. Turns out he didn't really have to cook at all, which was definitely a good thing. I was convinced the kids would eat chicken nuggets for four days straight but it seems they did have some variety in their meals.

I have a hard time letting go, but Jeff was the one that convinced me to go to California. He knew my sister needed me and I needed to be there with her. He knew this meant he had to take 3 days off of work and take care of two little ones but he didn't even hesitate when telling me to go. I'm so thankful for that. So thank you Jeff, for your support, encouragement and love over the past few weeks.

And on a final note, the best way to find out what went on while I was gone was to check the camera. After I left, it appears they played Chutes and Ladders. I think Riley won:

I guess all that gaming wore Riley out...either that or he really missed me and was moping:
Then apparently Allison completed a big floor puzzle:
And lastly they had fun taking pictures of themselves...dirty face and all...
The kids barely noticed I was gone. Seems daddy can fill mommy's shoes quite well (just don't ask him to do laundry, cook or clean!).