Grandpa Charles comes for a visit

It is not often enough that the kids get to see their grandparents and this is especially true of Grandpa Charles, who's teaching schedule makes coming out to Colorado difficult.  I was really surprised then, and pleased, when my Dad decided to take the few days he had off from teaching over Halloween and fly out.  We packed in a lot in just a few days, and I kept the camera handy.
First on the agenda was a good night's sleep- Dad barely got in 8 hours of sleep before I left Saturday morning to spend the day launching my new business (a separate post for that!).  Jake helped a bit with that and also took a long run, leaving Grandpa in charge, right from the start.  He did great, and the kids instantly bonded with him.  Grandpa is a wonderful grown-up, willing to tell stories, read books, crawl around on the ground, draw pictures, give hugs, feed hungry mouths and even change diapers, all with a well-practiced hand.  As I had a major exam that weekend, plus the launch parties, he got more than his share of one on one time with the kids and was a really big help to me.

We also hit the local kids Museum, and Xander had fun in the bubble maker, with the train set, and with the pirate ship. He also enjoyed a new exhibit (for him) on photosynthesis. The museum really does a great job and we are lucky to have it be just down the street from us.

Maya's still just a little young for most of what the museum has to offer, but I just knew she would love playing with the big "dress up" mirror.  Maya is one of the most social creatures on the planet.  I keep saying it but she is so fascinated by faces and loves to get as close as she can to you.  She loves people and has never once met ANYONE she didn't greet with a warm smile and open arms- literally!  I do sincerely hope that she keeps this trait because it is dynamite.  Anyway, here's Maya and, well, Maya!