Grandpa's January Visit

Lance decided he would rather spend the second week of January in Florida instead of Indiana.  I can't fault him for this, but I will fault him for not taking me.  Punk.

However, my dad came out for a bug/pest conference at Purdue, so I didn't have to spend the entire week without any help or adult interaction.

It wasn't the most exciting or fun trip he's ever had out here - Cole kept pooping in his pants (we're STILL working on that!) and was a bit of a pill (as per usual), Tess was getting some rather mean-looking molars and kept FREAKING OUT about little things, Josh and Spencer were both a bit out of sorts because it was the first week back at school after winter break, and I was a bit out of sorts because I didn't have my thyroid medication.  Wow - don't you all wish you could come visit us?  Sheesh.

But I really appreciate that he was willing to come and help with the kids, even if they weren't their usual picture-perfect selves. (HA.)

I only snapped a few pictures that week.  On Thursday night Grandpa was brave and took us all out to Tepanyaki Grill and Buffet, which the kids absolutely LOVE.  You'll understand why this was an act of bravery if you've ever been to a buffet with 4 youngish children, one of whom was very recently potty trained and the other who FREAKS OUT because her teeth hurt and you have to sneak ibuprofen into her drinks because she won't take it orally.  Sheesh.

Despite the picture, Tess loved dinner.  She gobbled lots of food up, especially the nice and soft and cool Jell-o.  She also enjoyed the chocolate ice cream so much that she slathered some in her hair, I can only assume so she could taste it again later.

She also loved having her own drink.  However, she's not so clear on the concept and likes to hold cups sideways so everything spills out.  So I ate most of my meal left-handed because my right hand was busy holding a cup for Tess.

Despite Cole's look, he also had a lovely meal and gobbled lots and lots of food.  Cole eats a bit fast and needed to be entertained while the rest of us ate, hence the phone entertainment.

Spencer ate and ate and I was impressed.  He loves that he can choose whatever he wants to eat and I don't get after him about it.  Hey, we only go to the buffet on very special occasions - no need to fight with the kids.

I tried to get a good picture of all three gentlemen, but no dice.  Sorry, Dad, not the best shot of you.

That's a little better.  Go Giants!

Grandpa spent a bit of time reading to kids on this trip.  This is good, because Tess loves - nay, DEMANDS - to be read to.  Constantly.  Seriously, lately I am always tripping over her because she'll stand right next to me while holding out a book she wants me to read.  I'll admit, I read only about 50% of the time she wants me to.  But dang things like paying the bills, making food, and cleaning up Cole's poop get in the way. ... ... What a glamorous life I lead...

And if Tess gets a story on Grandpa's lap, of course Cole does, too.  Spencer and Josh weren't too keen on the idea.  Spoiled sports.

My dad and I spent most evenings chatting and catching up.  On the last night we spent it watching the BYU/Pepperdine basketball game.  And by watching I mean I was on the computer doin' stuff and Dad was yelling at the game and the players.  No worries - come yell at our TV any time, Grandpa!  (But next time bring Susie so she can sit on the couch and do computer stuff with me. :)