We Miss You, Grandad!

Gavin's dad (Alan) left Tuesday after staying with us for the past two months. It has only been a few days, but we miss him already! Alan had taken a sign language class before visiting and I think that really helped him connect with Zoe. Zoe's signs are still difficult to read at times, but knowing the language certainly helps. Zoe had a great time with him- going for walks in the wagon, swinging in the backyard, or just playing around the house.

I certainly miss grandad today since Gavin is working this weekend (again! Gavin has worked every weekend except two since last August). Alan was a big help on weekends. After working all week, it is exhausting caring for Zoe on the weekend. She isn't the type of kid I can pour a bowl of cereal for and set her in front of the TV or tell her to go run around in the backyard by herself. Alan is always willing to unload the dishwasher, throw on a load of diapers, watch Zoe while I nap or run errands, etc. (Not to mention the huge accomplishment of insulating our basement headers! A project we have been working on since Alan last visited in November). We don't have any family in town, so it was really nice to have him here. It is amazing what a difference it makes to have that type of support.

I think Zoe was really missing Alan today because she kept signing "daddy" and then "grandad" repeatedly while making a sad face. I gave her some snuggles while she cried and signed their names. She even produced a tear while crying! That is only the second tear we have ever seen in Zoe's lifetime. After a few minutes of snuggling and crying she went back to playing. I think she just needed to express how she is feeling.

We hope this post doesn't make you sad, grandad. We just wanted you to know that miss you!!!!!