“I’m exhausted.” This is the collective experience of the Henry’s at the moment. It was hectic at home before spring break began. Catherine was swamped in her contract work and this is not slowing down in the foreseeable. She is super mom! She can get Julian to preschool, Dominic to strongstart, herself to work, Russell fed at some point, Julian to swim lessons, Dominic to nap, back to work, Julian to skating, all in a single bound! Many things going on leading into the break and we all left Dawson Creek a bit run down; Dominic getting some molars, Julian with a wet cough and Russell with a sinus cold and goopey eyes. However, we still hit the road excited for the Stewcation ahead.

Uncle Stew has set us up with some awesome activities. He sent everyone up Hudson Bay Mountain for some spring skiing and looked after all three of the boys. They are loving their time with Uncle Stew; splitting wood, cooking smores, building campfires, walks in the woods, morning cartoons, games of chase and tag. Today was an afternoon train voyage from Smithers to New Hazelton. This beautiful journey through the mountains was enjoyed by the Henry clan and their partner in the Stewtinerary, Meghan. It was a geat experience for all, except for the two hour delay of the train’s departure. This took its toll and everyone was fighting and often succumbing to sleep along the way.

Mom and Dad are having a tough time staying healthy through the busy-ness and adventure. Dad has acquired Julian’s flu, Mom is feeling sick also and strained some neck muscles in a seeemingly innocuous movement after her day of skiing. This to say that the exhaustion is compounded by flu and injury. Oh, and Russell has pink eye.  (Poor guy suffered for four days)

So, day two began with calls to the public health phone and then a trip to emerg. Russell is already on the mend with the prescribed eye drops but I feel the challenge for the rest of the family to get healthy remains. Some sleep tonight for all will be of immense benefit.

Despite the above challenges, our visit to Smithers has been incredible so far and thanks to Uncle Stew and Daphne’s amazing hospitality we are well fed, well organized, well chaufferred, well supported. It is no small feat welcoming a family of five (three boys under 4) and seeing to it they have days that warrant big smiles. This is the case, we all have big smiles and we are enjoying these days and each moment with family.