In Mourning

Today there is great grief and pain in our home. The Oprah Winfrey Show is airing for the last time. It's by far April's favorite show (imagine that), and I'm not sure how she's going to get through folding the laundry from now on.

I do admit, on the off occasion I happen to be in the room with April, I have watched and even enjoyed a few episodes (only a few... really). There's certainly no denying her role as a philanthropist in this world, and I don't suppose, fortunately, that role will cease just because her show will. But I think it's about time the king/queen television talk-show torch is passed on to a new heir. After all, 25 years is long, long time (and she's not done yet, of course, with her new "Own" network). And besides, it'll be interesting to see how this gap gets filled, if at all... but more importantly, how April is going to fill her extra hour every day!

Chicago- Shedd Aquarium

As part of our road trip, we spent a few days in wonderful Chicago. You would need a month to go through all the museums thoroughly... we only had 2 1/2 days. Our first visit was to the Shedd Aquarium. It was a Saturday, so a bit crowded, but we started early so it was fine.

Outside the Shedd on Lake Michigan.

April's Mom, Janet, joined us for a day... it was great to have her company (and have an extra hand!)

Chicago Skyline (note Nate running around).

April's handywork with her camera- cool stuff!

One of the cool things about the Shedd is that it is really geared toward children- there are a ton of nooks they can play in or on.

Nate the penguin (I don't think he's supposed to climb this high, but that's never stopped Nate).

And Elin the penguin.

Love the 3-D glasses. This was for a 4-D show... not only a 3-D picture but we were pelted with wind and rain as well (and our seats jiggled).

Their whale and dolphin show was really something.

Elin and Nate checking out some of the cool exhibits.

I thought this guy was pretty cool.

Check out the green eel- I think it was eyeing Elin as a tasty morsel.

The glowing jellyfish were pretty cool, too.

Bring, Bring

Yesterday Nate got his first phone call from someone other than a relative. He was walking around the house using words like "that is soooo cool," and "wow, awesome." He is getting so big! I can't quite wrap my brain around it all.