Meanwhile, back at home...

I love that Megan sends me e-mails, like these ones, with glimpses into life at home.

Today in cross country I ran 8 miles. It was a very windy day and after a weekend of watching conference, eating cinnamon rolls, and visiting Aunt Erin to see her new baby, somehow, I loved it. It felt amazing! There have been times when I run when I feel...completely in pain and wiped out and can't fathom how it can all be worth it. But there are also times when it feels exhilarating and I can go fast forever and forever without a thought of any possible pain. Cross country has been a blessing. 

Emma helped Marian with her math homework this evening. She made it fun for her by impersonating the chief of of Psych and treating each problem like solving a case. It was pretty funny. One of my favorite lines that she used was "innocent citizens are dying."  

Michael also helped Derek with his homework and made it fun for him.

Eliza read the word "ranch" during our reading time today. I asked if she knew what it meant, and then I told her it was kind of like a farm. Then she said, "a cilantro ranch?" It was so cute because the way she pronounces "cilantro" sounds kind of like "ranch" in the middle!

I gave attention to Norah today when I played Killer Bunnies with Michael. I could tell she wanted attention, so I started to talk to her, trying to engage her in conversation, but then she plugged her nose and made weird noises. I copied her and she laughed. I also sang her songs, changing the words to her name. (Example: "How do you solve a problem like my Norah?")The first thing Norah said this morning was "Mommy." But she's doing great! I got her out of bed, and she was a happy camper. 

When I see pictures of the kids they look so much older. How can it be that I can miss out on six months of their lives?