Chicago and Back to School!

I can't believe it is time for school already. Summer seemed so short!

We took a trip to Chicago to see my family. My cousin had her wedding reception/party at her parents' house and it seemed like a perfect excuse to see everyone. Thanks, Cuz!

You know how God just opens doors and makes things possible? When my mom was in town in June, she mentioned my cousin's party. I immediately and secretly checked airfares and they were ridiculously low. Like I have never paid that little for a round-trip airfare since I moved to Colorado 12 years ago kinda low. A 15-hour drive wouldn't work for just a weekend trip, and I couldn't believe how cheap the flights were. It felt like God saying, "Time for the munchkins to meet Chris' family." Anyhoo, Jason and I decided to book the flights and go to the party ~ and to surprise my mom.

pic of my mom when she saw us at our hotel
See how happy she looks ~ Surprise, Mom!!!

The family peeps that knew we were coming did a great job keeping it a secret (insert fist bump here)! We had fun at the party on Saturday, and even got to see the fam at another party on Sunday ~ bonus! And we only suffered two minor injuries (which is quite good for our us based on our track record this summer) ~ a fall off the trampoline and a possible busted toe. Nothing that slowed us down and still no rides in the ambulance. Yay us! ;-D

Monday we went to Navy Pier and hung out at my mom's house. We actually remembered to pull out our camera this day. Here are some pics:

The munchkins wanted to ride this train all day

When you are 7, I guess this ride sucks...

Josh exploring the rope tunnel at the Children's Museum

Playing in the building area (strike a pose, sista)

Playing in the water area

Getting eaten by a dinosaur while little brothers dig for dinosaur bones

Riding on the bus ~ do you have to stand up?

Swimming at Grammy's pool which is on the top floor of her building

Guess who got cold first?

Josh is such a good swimmer!

D and Aunt Shel splashing everyone

We came home and went to Josh's back to school night. And next thing you know...

HELLLLOOOOO SECOND GRADER!!!!

David started school today. He had to stand in the same place Josh did for his picture...

My big boy all dressed up in his tie

Sammy had to wear his tie too

Sammy will probably start preschool after he turns 3 in October... Can you believe it?!?

The kids are so happy to be in school ~ Praise God!

(((hugs))),
chris


Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.
                     ~ Romans 12:10