January Midst

Audrey with a grey Chicago Skyline in the background

It is that time of year where the days seem to blend together, much as they do in summer, except outdoor activity is much more limited. Since returning from Winter Break, the days seem to fly by, but at the same time creep slowly. At some points in the day, I cannot believe how the time has passed, while at other times, the minutes seem like hours. It is all a strange, grey, chilly time.

Audrey and the big fish tank at Shedd Aquarium

This weekend we savored an extra day off thanks to Martin Luther King Jr. Kim took the day off, as well. So we've had some time together as a family to lounge around the house, taking care of odds and ends. It was a little sad to see the Christmas tree come down. I enjoy turning the lights on every day when I return home with Audrey. The tree has been replaced by a new alphabet playing mat and an assortment of Audrey's favorite playthings. So, she approves of the new space usage, although I am sure she wonders about the lights and tree on some level.

Audrey and the Jellyfish

On Saturday we traveled into the big city of Chicago to visit the Shedd Aquarium for a couple hours. It was absolutely packed because it was half-price weekend, unbeknownst to us. When we finally got inside we were treated to an afternoon of fish of all kinds swimming this way and that. It brought back many memories of my own childhood, and it was a special time to spend with my wife and daughter for the first time as a family.

Audrey and the Dolphin