Preparation

We found out a few weeks ago that Brandon would be traveling for a week with work.  Normally, this would not be a big deal, although he hasn't been away on business for this long since the kids were born.  The bummer is that his week of travel backs up to our mommy and daddy get away.  He leaves tomorrow and will return the following Friday and then we leave bright and early Saturday morning. 

We went to get steaks for dinner tonight and on the way home Elizabeth starting crying that she didn't want her daddy to leave.  I feel bad for her.  We have had to try to explain daddy's trip and our trip at the same time and I know she is just a little confused and probably overwhelmed with information. Because she speaks so well I think I in turn overshare details that don't really matter to a 3 year old.  She is trying to break my heart though, she asked Brandon, "if you love me why are you leaving us?" Brandon explained it is because we love you that we are going away!  (so true!)

In order to prepare her for daddy's absence and then both of us I have some ideas.  First I am going to make a video of daddy reading the "Tickle Monster." It is their favorite book to have daddy read.  I am going to have us make videos together for them to watch each day that we are gone.  Elizabeth loves to watch our home movies on the iPad, so I think she will enjoy it.  I am also going to make an envelope for her to open each day. I am not sure what is going in the envelope yet, but I will figure it out!   She completed a picture for daddy to take with him and we have looked at the globe several times.  I am hoping for an opportunity to Skype with him, but don't want to promise that. 

I know she will do fine as long as she is occupied!  Grant is so easy going that I know as long as he is healthy he will be a happy camper!