I went back to Illinois for a few days for work back in February but this will be the first time Emily will be back (besides a 1 day deal last November) since the big move last August. It seems like just yesterday we were packing up the moving truck and making our way tearfully to NC. I could tell today Emily was starting to get upset about having to go and then leave again. But it is my guess in the end she will realize that things aren't all that bad here.
I am excited to get to go back and visit for an extended period of time and see everyone, but it is also gets stressful trying to get everything done that we want to do. I have to fit in a visit to the office for where I do freelance work, 2 gymnastics practices for Emily, and seeing everyone. It also is hard because I know I will have to leave and most likely not see many of these people for another year **sniff sniff**. And probably the worst part is I know Emily will cry and I hate it when my kids are hurting and I can't fix it.
Of course I will post lots of pictures along our Midwest journey. Until then, I will leave you with some parting memories from our move a year ago.
Val and I at our hangout "Robbies". 
Leesha and Sami at our goodbye dinner.
Tina and Carla being goofy as usual. 
Kleenex and wine... the staple of Summer of 2006. 
Emily and the girls TPing their coach's house. 
Emily and some of the team on her last day. 
Sam and Noah didn't know what to think. 
Sam, Hannah and Ashley in the empty family room. 
Emily and Maia. 
I don't know why, but I love this picture. I wonder what thoughts were running through Chris's head as they drove the semi away. (This couch got to go live at Jamie's house)
Jamie, Val and my last picture together **sniff sniff**
The end of a 4 year journey. Our last family picture at Cedar Hill Drive.
