I wish my parents lived closer.  4 1/2 hours isn't that far of a drive however, with a 1 year old, it seems like an eternity.  Each time we make the trek back to the Hills, the journey seems farther and farther.  

Dad's here for a few nights-- I wonder what "life skill" he will teach Beau.  When Dad visits Carrie's house, he normally teaches Gertie-Beth a "skill" such as how to spit or blow a whistle.  Maybe "pull my finger" will be the next in Gert's socialization?

I'm tired today.  Shep has been getting up at least once a night crying-- not sure why.  I'm going to guess its teething; the kid just had all 4 molars surface.  That can't feel good.  Doctors need to invent some kind of super potent painkiller (non-opiate/habit forming) for little ones to make them sleep more comfortably when teething.... or to give mom and dad a break once in a while.