For Obvious Reasons, No Picture Included

I don't make a habit out of dressing or undressing in front of Jack, not because I think the human body is something to be ashamed of, but more because I don't want to scar him for life.

Last week, I settled Jack before the tv, hoping that Thomas the Tank would do his usual magic and transform him into a slack-jawed captive. I ran into the bathroom, undressed quickly and began adjusting the shower's water temp until I heard....

"Oooooohhhhh, noooooo!! Oooooh, noooo!!!"

I turned my head to find Jack staring, fear and panic evident in his eyes.

"Where pena (penis) go? Where pena? Oooooh, noooo!!"

"Mommy doesn't have a penis, Jack. Only boys and daddies have penises."

"Ooooooooohhhhhh, noooo!" Jack yelled and ran back to Thomas's safety.

And we haven't talked about it since. So much for not scarring him.

Third Annual Trip to Tanner's Orchard

Tanner's--one of my favorite fall destinations! Jack really enjoyed it this year. His favorite part was the two wooden trains that he climbed all over and pretended to drive. He also liked the long, metal tunnel in the hay maze. As always, he enjoyed the animals, and even tried to give all of the goats hugs. I was nervous about letting him ride in a barrell, but he was really good about staying inside.

Back in Illinois...

For those of you keeping score, we're back in Illinois. After eight months of unemployment, we opened up our job search circle.