We went exploring with Alexis at Sterns Woods. Instead of walking the paths, we ventured to distant hills and yonder valleys through the woods on small deer paths. Alexis climbed steep slopes and stirred up animals.

We had yet another date at Barnes and Nobles where Rachel read several books. The ladies sitting next to us were so impressed with Rachel’s reading that they stopped to listen. It was “Rachel’s Reading Time” at Barnes and Nobles. Of course, we purchased a steamer from the coffee shop.

Rachel and I went to Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. It took four hours and included dinner at Jimmy John’s. We had a great time exploring, looking at different stores, and talking. The mall was super crowded and we had difficulty finding a parking spot. Rachel played in the Children’s PlayCourt. I enjoyed visiting the salt water tanks at Rainforest Cafe.

This date was a nice trip to the park and then Dairy Queen. We stopped by Veteran’s Acres and walked around the frozen lake – the snow was all melted but the ice was still thick except around the edges. Alexis stood on the ice by the dock. We saw a herd of deer, eight in total. They allowed us to get within forty feet of them. Then we visited the pet shop and had a swirl ice cream cone at Dairy Queen.

Following her sister, Alexis went to Barnes and Nobles for some Daddy reading time. Alexis read three books after enjoying a “Gingerbread” steamer.

This date was a tried and true one at Barnes and Nobles. She was treated to a “Steamer” from the coffee shop – vanilla. Then we read several books in the store.

Rachel wanted to go to Richard Walker’s Pancake House for our date. We had a lovely time sitting by the fireplace. Rachel ordered the french toast and I had crepes with berries. YUM. The entire family went sledding thereafter.