Amazing how much 4 days away can throw you off track. We left Friday morning for Ohio. We as in, me, the girls and my father. J stayed home. Overall it was a great trip. Of course, it was stressful on me and lots of food-filled anxiety. But that has nothing to do with my Sis and her family. They are all MORE than gracious about giving up control of their kitchen and meals to keep Kayla as safe as possible. They don't go dairy free, but as Colin puts it (he's 6 1/2), he does not like to wash his mouth with soap. I'm with you kiddo - I don't like it either. :) It was even a bit harder on me this time than at Thanksgiving b/c my Sister and her hubby were away until Sunday afternoon, so my Mom's main responsibility was to my niece and nephews and J was not there, so I did not have his help with the food stuff.

But - get this great comment from Colin. B4 we arrived, my Mom was reminding the kids about Kayla's allergy, etc. Colin just simply said "Well, why don't we just not drink milk and stuff". Now why can't adults 'get it' like kids do? Of course, we didn't make him go through with his offer. He really doesn't understand what it would mean. And they need their dairy. So some meals were dairy-free and some were not. Once, Colin even opted out of drinking milk b/c he didn't want to use soap on his mouth. He's too cute. ;)

The girls were amazing good in the car considering. We're all a bit sick of Dora, except Kayla of course. The 5 kids had such a great time playing together. They really love each other - I love it. And the 2 little ones, Alysa and Elliot (who are 3 weeks apart in age) just grinned at each other the whole time. I don't think they ever know what to do with someone their own size at 15 months.

And of course, last night, Kayla saw our neighbor's kid playing outside and ran to the window yelling - "Coldin! Coldin" (aka Colin). When I told her it wasn't Colin, she said "Maddy!". So sad that I have to explain that they are in Ohio and not here. This is the part that breaks my heart.

And even though they loved being in Ohio - they were giddy to be home. Alysa actually more excited to run into the house than she was to see J. He of course, missed them terribly. He even left work early Monday night and went in late Tuesday to spend time with them. Too bad I don't get that kind of treatment. LOL In all seriousness - he's a wonderful father and I wouldn't have it any other way.

So it's back to routine now. Of course, though Elliot and Maddy shared their colds with Alysa. So she's miserable - but...she can now blow her nose which makes my life a TON easier. The weather is absolutely wonderful here - in the 70's today and in the 60's yesterday and tomorrow. The girls are getting lots of outdoor time. This will be a fun summer since Alysa is not at the age where she can enjoy our swing set. She loves the slide already. She loves to go down them on her tummy and head first. She's a trip.

And I'm looking forward to this weekend as J and I get to go on a date - we are going out to dinner and may actually go to the movies. Now for those that know me know this is unusual. I love movies, but I'm not a fan of going to the movie theater. I tend to get annoyed by people (yes, I'm a homebody) and I know I'll see 5 year olds in an R rated movie. Ho hum... But I really want to see Premonition. Let's hope it's a good movie. Then Sunday, J is off as we are trying to jump-start Kayla's potty training. I don't think it will go too well - but I'm hoping she'll surprise me. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. She is SO against the whole potty thing, but since preschool starts in 6 months, I have to try to get this going. 6 months is not a long time in the world of potty training. I'll keep you posted on that.

So that is about it for us right now. I just enjoyed a delicious Shamrock Shake (I'm not at home if it wasn't obvious). :) So that put a smile on my face. So yummy!

I hope everyone is having a great week in Bloggy Land.