One thing that was hard about our life in Dominica was that we rarely felt like a "normal" family that could do normal things. Ben had to study ALL THE TIME and we didn't have many resources available-- so while we enjoyed our time there and did enjoy what the experience had to offer (you know, picnics while watching the sunset over the ocean, trips to the beach whenever we wanted) we were desperately craving normal life! Our time in Utah was more like vacation, so now that we are all settled in Florida we are loving all the normal things that surround us! I had a frustrating day a few days ago and we needed a few groceries and other things, so I packed up Chase and took him to Target. I walked around Target and was immediately SO THANKFUL to be back in the United States. Every single grocery item on my list was there- and none of it was even rotten or expired! And some of it was on sale! (Unheard of in Dominica- unless it's way past its expiration date) Retail therapy! It was awesome!
Last night we finished up dinner a little earlier than usual and still had another hour before Chase's bedtime. Ben studies at home at night now, which really can't happen until after Chase is in bed anyway. Ben suggested we go get ice cream- something we haven't done in over a year and a half (and we've never taken Chase with us- he was about 1 month old the last time we did it). Chase was ALL FOR IT! We packed up the car and headed to Cold Stone, which is just a few minutes from where we live. Chase loved being out, looking at all the flavors, and mostly eating his ice cream! This kid never sits still- but put a cup of ice cream and a spoon in front of him and he's all business!
This is Dad: Reminds me when I took Benjamin to Dairy Korner in Orange County and bought him an ice cream cone in the winter. Here he was shivering while eating the cone. He was maybe half way through and I felt sorry for him, so I told him he didn't have to eat all of it. He looked at me (kind of like Chase is looking at the camera here)and while shivering from head to toe he gritted his teeth, shook his head "no" and kept eating. He finished every bite and was freezing all the way home. Totally hilarious. As they say, like father,like son :).
ReplyDeleteOkay, so I love your post AND Ray's story about Ben :).
ReplyDeleteYay for retail therapy - Target is sooo wonderful. I'm glad you guys are settling in there in Florida and that your experience there will be a bit more normal.
I'm so happy you're back state-side. I feel closer to you already.
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