Wonders of the World

I travel sometimes for work. Sometimes to amazing, foreign locals.

I've seen 2 modern wonders of the world.

I've been to India:

To Korea:

and I just got back from Brazil:

Don't get me wrong: I work hard on these trips, and have fun, and see amazing sights.

But, the best thing I ever see on these trips are the three smiling faces waiting for me when I return.

Upon my return from mys most recent trip to Brazil, I was fortunate enough to get back home first thing Saturday morning...and I opened the door...and the two of you, Aidan and Julia, ran into my arms and embraced me as if it was the first time you'd ever seen me. You help me tight and squeezed your faces close to mine. And showered me with love. This was by far one of the greatest moments of my life. 

You two made me feel like the most amazing dad on the planet. You of course make me feel special and loved pretty much every day. But this homecoming, this organic, unscripted moment made me feel like the luckiest guy on the planet. I will never forget that feeling and will carry each and every hug from you with me wherever I go.

Thank you for this most amazing gift. 

I love you so much. 

Toothpaste on my Shoulder

Yesterday, when you were young, I wore your yogurt mustache embraces on my jeans.

Today, you gave me a toothpaste-mouth hug on my shoulder.

Wet paper towels and laundry may wash them away. But, like badges on a decorated soldier, I wear our embraces proudly. They are a tangible sign of what I feel for you, and what you feel for me.

Tomorrow, when we see eye to eye and you have better hygiene, who knows what trails of love we will leave for each other.

But, I will always love you, and always cherish your toothpaste hugs.

Reunited

For 1 long half-day year, and 1 long full-day year, Julia and Aidan, you have been separated while Aidan is at school and Julia is not. Now, granted, some days Julia gets to go up to Aidan's class to help mommy teach art, and next year- we just found out- the two of you get to be in the same class together! But, for 2 years, you two were separated.

And this is how you would great each other after a long day apart. Every time.

And that- that is all you need to know.

Arboretum Trip with Mimi and Pops: A photopictorial