Independence Day

I have determined that I do not like my independence all that much. I like to think of myself as capable, able to manage a great deal on my own, but the truth is: I am a wimp.

Call it love, call it co-dependence, call it whatever you like, when I am away from my husband for more than a day there is this sad little space that develops deep inside me. Sure, I go through the motions of life; I have happy moments. But, things just don't feel right. Something is off.

And my kids, well even grandmas, grandpas, aunts, uncles and cousins can't compensate for their daddy. And, even with other help, I am not cut out to be a single parent.

By this last weekend, we were all holding on tight to the knowledge that Jeffrey will be arriving soon. Every day, Maggie would ask, "How many days til my daddy come?" and we would count down on her fingers. Then she would say, "It taking so long!!!!" and begin to cry.

So, as the country celebrated its independence, I spent the weekend resigning myself to the loss of my own. I don't want it. I am done. Jeffrey, we are ready for you to come!

Sure we all look happy enough on the outside:




























But, this is how we feel on the inside:

Summer Vacation?

We have been in Utah for three weeks. And, let me just say, we have packed in the fun (and the exhaustion). Can you say "too much of a good thing?"

With three more weeks to go, I do not want to begin to imagine the repercussions if I don't get my three year old to sleep a little more. In any case, it really has been fun. So far we have spent our "vacation" on:

Dance Classes (twice a week for Mia, once a week for Maggie)
Swimming Lessons (for both girls)
Horse Back Riding Lessons (for Mia)
Swimming Outings (at least four)
Playdates with Cousins at Nama's House
Visiting the Aquarium (not worth it, if you are wondering -- should have saved the money for our trip to a real aquarium in Baltimore)
Playing in the Fountains at Gateway
Visiting Wheeler Farm
Going to the Movies
Visiting old friends in SLC
Picnics in the Park
Children's Dance Theater Performance
Utah Arts Festival
Fourth of July BBQ's and Fireworks
Welcoming a New Cousin (my brother's first daughter, Rae)
Getting Everyone's Haircut
Jumping on the Trampoline at Nama's
Being Pirates in a Park City Parade

And, this was supposed to be the calm portion of the visit before Jeffrey arrives tomorrow. Needless to say, we are bracing for all the other adventures we have in store.

Here's the proof of all we have been doing.