Magic and Mayhem

Last week went by really fast. It was a little hectic, but thankfully not as crazy as the week before. Thanks, in huge part, to the wonderful help of my Mom. Not only did she take wonderful care of Dylan while I was working, but she made sure Mike was taking it easy post surgery and even helped with household chores. I don't know how I'll ever be able to express how thankful I am to have had her here. I had been running on fumes for a while and without her help, I would have never made it through the week. Thanks Mom! I love you!

With Mike recuperating and Mom's visit, folks wanted to come over and visit. Last weekend, Mike's sister and his niece came over to check on him. Though, his niece Emily's main motivation in seeing us is Dylan. She just loves this little guy and is really great with him. While I ran out of the house to get a haircut, everyone else stayed at the house to hang out. Dylan had a great time reading and playing with his cousin.

Dylan and Emily

Mike's mother also came over one afternoon. She said it was to check up on Mike and see my Mom but, like Emily, I think Dylan's a big motivating factor in her visits as well! Liza, our neighbor from Dallas that now lives here came over to visit with my Mom. She, too, also loves Dylan and he's a draw for her. What can I say, my little boy is pretty mesmerizing to the ladies!

Like I said, my Mom did a great job taking care of Dylan. Even though I know she missed my Dad, I think she truly enjoyed this one on one time with her grandson. For the most part, the week was without incident. The couple of times that Dylan did get upset, she was fabulous in helping his needs get met and getting calmed down. Mimaw and Dylan had a fantastic time together and I know they're going to miss each other a lot.

Mimaw Feeding Dylan

Dylan Enjoying His New Swivel Chair

Mimaw Gives Dylan His First Mohawk

Smooches!

Now, the main reason it was so easy for my Mom to get here on short notice was because she'd already had a trip planned up here. She and my Aunt Pam were scheduled to arrive on Thursday. Mom just changed her arrival date for almost a week early and my Aunt Pam stayed with her original travel plans. My Aunt Pam is possibly the biggest Harry Potter fan and wanted to come see the special exhibit running at the Museum of Science. My Mom, of course, would not let her travel here to see us without tagging along. So, the trip was planned.

Since the peak of the mayhem had passed, we continued as scheduled. On Friday, all of us, Mike included, went to the MOS for the fun. We all really had a great time! Pam, though extremely well versed in all things Harry Potter, learned some new facts through the exhibit. Dylan, Mike and I enjoyed seeing all the costumes and props. Mom enjoyed the exhibit and getting to spend time with all of us. On Friday's in January, the IMAX theater there also had free shows so we took advantage and went to see The Greatest Places. Dylan was absolutely mesmerized by the dome screen for about 5 minutes before he got very tired. I only missed a short bit of the film while I stepped out to spare those around of his tired whines. Though not a full length feature, I suppose it was technically his first movie experience so I think he did a great job.

Mom and Aunt Pam in Gryffindor Colors

Pam, Mom, Dylan and I Enjoying the Sunset at the MOS

After seeing the Harry Potter Exhibit and the movie, Mike was tuckered out and Dylan was done with the museum so we all headed home.

While at the museum, we got some HUGE news! My brother Jamie and his wife Sarah welcomed the new addition to their quickly growing family. Jacob Landry was born in Tulsa, OK. Their daughter, Payton, is not yet 3 months old so those two will definitely have their hands really full! Congratulation to them! Hopefully all the legalities of the adoption go smoothly and they can return home soon.

The rest of the weekend was spent pretty leisurely. Mom and Pam helped me run some errands and work on some projects at the house. Mike rested up and had energy to help us make some nice dinners to have together.

Dylan and His Great Aunt Pam

It was a really great visit and, as always, went by way too fast. I dropped the ladies off at the airport this morning. I really hated to see them go. I'm going to miss having these strong women in my life around to keep me company.

Our Last Morning Together (And My New Mantle Decor)

Tomorrow, Dylan will go back to daycare. He'll hopefully only be there a couple of days this week. Mike has his follow up appointment on Tuesday, will likely get the okay to pick up the baby (he has been doing so a little bit in the last couple of days but very carefully and minimally) and will be cleared for Dad duties.