Hannover 96

Rick had tried four different times in the last six months to take both Matthew and Chrissie to the Hannover 96 soccer game.  He kept running into problems such as game change to Sunday or Matthew getting sick.  Finally, he was able to get tickets for yesterday's game.  

 For the past week Matthew woke up every morning asking if that day was the day they go to the "sechsundneunzig" (the number 96 in german, the only thing he says in german) game.  It was a very special date for the kids.  Matthew repeatedly reminded me all morning that I was not going.  The highlights: riding the bus/train/strasse bahn, yummy snacks, and presents.

 Above: "funny" picture.  Below: "happy" picture.

Matthew and Chrissie got to pick out their very own gifts and one for Jane as well.  Matthew wanted everything but finally decided on a notebook and pen to do his letters.  Chrissie really didn't see anything that particularly appealed to her but finally found some chapstick.

 Rick does not like our kids to be cold.  So he had them wear at least five layers underneath their jersey.  I am sure Matthew had at least ten.  

 For Rick one highlight was hearing the kids discuss on the train ride home who was stronger: Darth Vader or Luke Skywalker?  Matthew argued that Darth Vader was stronger because he could throw the Emperor into space and Luke couldn't.  Chrissie argued that Luke was stronger because he was trained by Yoda. Finally they agreed that Yoda was the strongest.   At the end of the date, as they were walking home Matthew said, "I like going on a special date with you." And then he listed all the things he enjoyed.  He even woke up this morning saying, "It was so fun going to the 'sechsundneunzig' game with you, Daddy."