Mimi and Baba's Visit

My parents just wrapped up a month-long visit in Seattle. They left last week and I am sure they are still in bed catching up on sleep. As you can imagine, staying at my house is NOT relaxing. I have three young children, and each of them presents different needs and challenges. I heard my dad ask my mom on multiple occasions, "Was it like this when our children were young?"

 

Not only were my parents guests in our home for a month, but they also watched our clan while Tommy and I left town for a week. While I thoroughly enjoyed my "time-off," I must admit that I felt a bit anxious while I was away. I worried that my mom was exhausted, especially after learning that Brayden was not sleeping at night. I worried that the chaos would be too much for them. After all, they are retired and enjoy living a very peaceful life these days.

 

The good news is that we all survived. Tommy and I had a great trip, the kids had fun with Mimi and Baba, and I think my parents enjoyed themselves too. As my mom said, it will never be this hard again. The kids will continue to grow and become more independent. I'd like to share an excerpt from an email I received from my dad over the weekend. It sums up his experience:

 

I love my grandchildren.  Yes, there were times when I got frustrated with one or more of them, but I already miss them.  They each have adorable personalities.  How can I forget Taylor's sharp mind and determined personality?  How can I forget Matty bringing the beat up car I gave him, plus wanting me to comb his washed hair?  How can I forget how voracious Brayden would eat and how much he gets around by crawling now?

Mom and Dad, thank you, thank you, thank you, for taking care of my babies. Tommy and I needed the time away just as much as the kids needed to bond with you. Hopefully the memories of your time here will make you laugh instead of cry! Just three short months until we bombard your house for Christmas! Rest up!