The Built-In Shades Hat!

Two of Kai's favorite gifts from Arizona were a hat with built-in sunglasses (they litterally slide up and down using a lever on the side of the hat), and a quartz rock.

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Today we joined Maya's "China sisters" and their families in China Town to celebrate the Chinese New Year. We ate great food, watched beautiful dances, and observed an authentic lion dance. Kai said that his favorite part was when the Lion spit out the lettuce and it flew all over. Happy Year of the rabbit!

The Snow The Storm Left Behind!

I Have to Look My Best!

Unfortunately, Maya spiked a fever again late last night...this time only to 101, but nevertheless, it's still a fever. By morning, she was again fever free and appeared to be feeling much better. Very lethargic, but better. Let's hope the fever's gone for good.

My parents called to tell us that they would be arriving at our house around 5:00p.m. The kids asked all day..."how much longer until they're here?".

Maya wore her jams most of the day and told me that she wanted to get dressed. Her exact words were "I have to look my best for Didi and Papa!" She found one of her China dresses and decided it would be perfect for the occasion.

My parents arrived safely, and spent the evening with us playing princess monopoly and eating a roast dinner.

Following Didi and Papa's Journey!

For those of you who don't know, my mom and dad have spent the past 6 weeks in Arizona with my sister and her family. They were able to be there for the birth of their 4th grandchild, baby Evan. We have all missed them terribly and are excited that they are on their journey home. Fortunately, they're not in a hurry and can take their time as they "follow" the storm rather than fight with it on the way home.

Just recently, Papa sent the kids a package in the mail that contained a kitchen table bird book, and a map of the United States. On the map were two bold black lines. One showing our usual drive down to Miami and the other showing their route to Arizona. This gave the kids a better idea of just how far Phoenix is considering they remember all too well our 22 hour treks to Nanny's house in Miami.

Every day, my parents call the kids and let them know their travel route for that day. The kids take turns following their journey back by recording it on the map in red marker. They're counting the days and can't wait to see their Didi and Papa again.

FYI, schools were out again today. Maya's been fever free for 24 hours so our fingers are crossed that she can go to school tomorrow.

The Blizzard Has Arrived!

We didn't get hit as hard as Chicago, but we definately got our fair share. Everything is closed today. Our local newspaper even announced that they would be combining Wednesday's issue with Thursday's as a result of the storm. Our local schools are closed, all Chicago area schools are closed, Dom's work is closed, and Maya's still sick.

The Blizzard is Beginning!

We're expected to experience one of the worst winter storms in Chicago history. They're predicting waves up to 25 feet crashing along the Chicago shore line conbined with up to two feet of snow and extremely strong winds. Sounds fun! Early this afternoon, this is what Hunter looked like waiting to come inside.