Chicago trip

Happy first birthday Elijah! I was happy to be able to be present on Eli's first birthday. Uncle John and JT were there and Aunt Elizabeth sang "Happy Birthday" along with us via Skype. (Wow! How could I ever have imagined such a thing when I was little!)
John and JT came down on Monday and went to the Museum of Science and Industry before coming to George's. We had birthday cake in the evening. Beth had Tuesday off and was able to take the boys with John and JT (and me) to the Museum. The boys had such a great time in the Imagination Station! Eli was able to play at the water tables in the baby area. JT and Gabe loved all the water elements and the pneumatic tubes. Gabe wanted to go back every time we drove by. JT and Gabe also had a guided tour of the train.
Beth and I took the boys to Garfield Park Conservatory and, at the end of the week, to the Shedd Aquarium. Thanks to Beth as those were wonderful visits. The conservatory is a favorite place to visit aquarium was so impressive! George and Beth have a family pass and it was a great opportunity for my first visit. I was overwhelmed! I've never been snorkeling or been swimming with sharks so it gave me a little view of the things John C and Elizabeth did on their Sea Base trips.
Beth's mom was a huge help with the kids during the week. Actually, she took care of them and I did a bit of light housekeeping.
I stayed a day longer than planned due to a freight train derailing on the tracks. Not good to get a call that your train has been rescheduled due to a train derailing!