Friday, January 16, 2009

Chi-town (Jan 8-11)

We visited the Windy City as T had a conference there. Clare was very excited to go and I was looking forward to seeing a friend I've had for 21 years, but hadn't seen in 10! The city managed to get 12" of snow while we were there, which made getting around interesting since we hadn't brought our boots or any snow gear (the weather report didn't happen to mention a threat of a blizzard....), and I guess the one thing that I didn't stick with me from Girl Scouts was "always be prepared."
It was so great to see Kate who now lives in Chicago. Clare enjoyed her, too!

Clare took our picture for us and was delighted that she got asked to do such a "big girl" thing.

On Saturday evening, T was at a work dinner, so we met up with our friends Emily (the mom), Zeke (4) and Agnes (2) and took the El to the Rainforest Cafe.

Patiently (and very hungry) awaiting the next train.

Watch out Clare! I think you're about to be snake food!

Taking a minute to look down at the robotic growling crocodile.

Okay, so us moms opted for the volcano dessert. The kids deserved it after such a crazy trip to the place.

On Sunday morning, Clare and I went to the Shedd Aquarium. We enjoyed it, but it was jam-packed. Her main agenda was to see the seahorses and the hammerhead sharks; both of which she accomplished.

She loved watching the rays swim and all of the beautiful tropical fish. Most of the fish would swim up to her, some would even follow her, which became an eerie occurence throughout the morning. Is she the fish-whisperer?

Good thing this guy didn't take an interest in her. The Anaconda, which was around 20' long! She took an interest in him, though, and said, "I love snakes."

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Ciao!

Tobias has been chosen to receive a fellowship to do research and write in Trent, Italy this summer. Right now, it looks like he will be there for the month of June (and he may just have 2 stow-aways with him). Ciao!

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa's!

On 12.26, we headed for Des Moines to Gma Jeanne's and Gpa Larry's house for some more Christmas celebrations. Clare was very eager to see her cousins!


Gma's 3 granddaughters.....sorry Emily, that you were sick.....Katie (10), Gma, Clare, and Megan (10).
Clare couldn't miss the being involved with Katie and Megan's instrumental concert.

Sneaking a smile at mom.

THE COUSINS!!! Back row: Megan (10), Jason (17), Will (14), Christopher (15)
Middle row: Katie (10), Emily (14). Front row: Clare (3-3/4)

Clare's impromptu "Rudolph" solo.