Just A Travelin' Girl

We have spent the day getting Isabelle all packed up for her yearly trip to Chicago. She has been going on a week-long vacation by herself since just after Alex was born. It is always something she REALLY looks forward. And my parents, sister and brother-in-law, and nieces and nephew really do too. The week is always jam-packed with lots of activities and fun one-on-one time for her.

This summer is no different. Some of their plans include The Museum of Science and Industry, Kiddieland, and the Kit Kittredge movie. To say I am a little jealous of all the fun they have planned would be an understatement. But I am so thrilled that Isabelle is fortunate enough to have this opportunity. She would have a wonderful week even if there weren't any special plans made. Her cousins are some of her favorite people in the world and playing with them is one of her favorite things to do.

My parents are also looking forward to the days when the younger kids will be old enough to go by themselves for a week. They really enjoy this time alone and use it to deepen their relationship with their grandchildren and build some terrific memories. Alex and Olivia are already voicing their desires to go next year. They both wish they were going this time too. They've also made sure they've let Isabelle know dozens of times throughout the day today how much they are going to miss her. We all are! This house is so different when she is not here.