A sweet reunion

We just survived a week without Daddy as he traveled to Florida for a commercial shoot. As usual, I don't enjoy his absence, but we tried extra hard this time around to make it fun for those left behind by delighting in pleasures we don't normally enjoy - donuts for breakfast, dinners out, fun meals at home, sleepovers with friends and extra playdates throughout the week. Somehow, it makes the time go faster. The kids missed Daddy terribly and were constantly wanting to save our "special treats" to share with Daddy on his return. We certainly had a lot of contact with him so that he could sing his "funny songs" to the kids and pray with them at night. Colson said every day, "it's taking too long for my Daddy to come home!" Poor little Cole missed Daddy the most this time and had A LOT of trouble sleeping at night! Needless to say, neither he nor I are well rested at the end of the week! (He also has some sort of stomach pain going on. After a trip to the doctor he's on a non-dairy diet, but it doesn't seem to be helping his frequent middle of the night screams of stomach pain!)

We had a few adventures with broken garage doors, a few snow storms (having to shovel alone was not fun!) and sick kids (it's inevitable that the kids get sick when Daddy's away). But other than that, the kids got along really well with one another which is always a blessing!! I knew that our little family was being prayed for because our time was relatively smooth despite the excitement we experienced. I love knowing that God is working in my life... this week He gave me a sense of patience and strength that I do not possess alone!! It was wonderful welcoming Daddy home!

Ky taking in all of Daddy's attention




Colson just collapsed in his Daddy's arms


The kids wouldn't leave his side


Everyone wants to be with him


The "men" making a fire (Cole and Daddy)


All 3 "men" observing their fine work


Kaden sneaking in some extra hugs

We also had a big surprise for Daddy upon his return! After shoveling all week alone, I realized what a chore it is and decided it was time to purchase a snow blower for my husband! It has been a long time since he's allowed us to spend money on him, so we used Valentines Day as our excuse and the kids were filled with excitement as they helped me set our plan in motion! Kylee was so excited that she called Grammy and Poppy (Jim's mom and dad) to tell them with her reason being, "Daddy always does so much for us and works so hard that we wanted to do something for him! And, it was on sale!" Yes, my little girl knows I am a bargain hunter!!

Yes, we love our Daddy and we're so glad he's home!!!