When August ended we have had some fun trips planned and now we are taking those trips and checking them off. First up...Michigan to visit Jeff and Holli. The drive was supposed to be just under 5 hours. We left around 3 and thought we'd get there in time to play games and get the kids settled. Umm...no that did not happen!! We got stuck in major traffic from Joliet, Illinois (about 2 hours from our house) till the Michigan border. Folks, that was about 50 miles total. It took us from 3 pm till 12am to get to Michigan. It was insane. Rain storm, traffic, a stop to eat at the only possible location, kids having to go to the bathroom, me wanting to jump ship. It was soooo long. The kids did awesome, though. I think I was the weakest link for sure. So when we finally get to Michigan, Lola decides she is going to cry from 1am till 3 am. Needless to say, it was a long day and night. And now for some pictures:
Lake Michigan was so picturesque and a perfect place to spend Labor Day weekend.
People were jumping off this high pier and Chloe wanted to try and just went for it with gusto.
Then the others joined in.
Then Brad said I should do it...and I finally did with some coaxing. I've been sky diving but would rather drink poison then jump off a high place into water. But i did it. I thought it would make Chloe and Brad proud.
We had a flood at our house one day while I was at playgroup. The fridge had a leak and man it left some damage. And Brad and I just thankfully say, "so glad we aren't home owners."
This sweet lady turned 18 months.
Next up Chicago. Brad was presenting a poster at a conference so we tagged along.
Our hotel was right near Lakeshore drive and Navy Pier. This picture was taken at the zoo. We've been to chicago several times and never been to the free zoo. It was awesome.
A view from our expensive hotel (thank you Peoria IM)
A look at the "bean" from a distance.
Up close. (look at their arms. I heart sister love)
I think this shot turned out cool.
We've always wanted to do the Ferris Wheel, and here we did it.
View from up top.
We spent a lazy afternoon at the beach.
Miss Belle takes after Chloe and her love of the water.
We decided on Gino's East this time. It sure take a long time to cook those deep dish pizza. We let the kids take some of their own pictures.
We left our "mark" forever at Gino's East. tell us if you ever see this.
And this guy asked a couple of times "is this okay momma?"
The fall has been great so far. Miss Blue has had several days off for heat schedule so have I cherished that extra time with the little first grader. Why is the school day so dang long?? I love having all of them close. Ez is loving preschool. and I will post more about the 1st grade field trip next.
Love you all.
