Grandma & Grandpa V. Visit

 With Liz visiting a friend this weekend, Ella and I hung out with Grandma and Grandpa V. On Friday, Grandma and Grandpa V arrived and the fun began with Ella's new car.  It took about 5 minutes of getting used to but then Ella was off to the races.  On Saturday, we went to an apple orchard in Wisconsin where we picked apples, fed goats, watched a pig race and drank apple cider.  We ended the day with a walk to Scooters for custard and of course a little more "car time".  Sunday morning brought the customary walk to the park and one last ride in Ella's favorite new toy.  Thankfully Grandma V was able to distract Ella while we put the car away.  Ella and I ended the weekend with a trip to the Nature Museum and Zoo with Abbie and Eric. 

Ella was a natural. 

Getting ready for the pig races.   

Giving Grandma V. a hug. 

Apple Cider doughnuts! 

Ella and Grandpa V enjoying a little Sesame Street. 

Showing Grandma V. her new kitchen. 

Hi Grandpa V. 

Ella was a little hesitant with the corn maze. 

Feeding the goat.  

Enjoying the fruit of her labor. 

Apple cider in an apple cup.  What a place. 

Sharing with Grandpa V. 

And we're off. 

We're still working on steering.

Jumping Bean

Once again, I won't have the weekly update ready until Monday, so I thought I'd share a few photos and a video from the park this morning to tide you over. Have a great weekend!

20 Months Old!

First off, to our faithful followers, apologies for the delay. Once again, we had a busy weekend! Grandma and Grandpa C. arrived Friday night to help us prepare Ella's new bedroom. This involved painting the walls and various pieces of furniture, transitioning the closets, hanging curtains, and many other related projects that seemed to arise along the way. I don't have pictures posted yet, as we're waiting for the wall art to be hung, but stay tuned! We sure appreciate the help, and feel much more prepared for the family expansion this winter.

Snuggling with her little brother.

Playing with Cousin Abbie.

Having breakfast in the play room with Grandma C.

Getting ready for a cupcake with Grandpa C.

Just like her mama, Ella has a huge sweet tooth!

Ready for a day out.

Labor Day Weekend

Our Labor Day weekend was spent cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, who were in town to play Northern Illinois at Soldier Field, and hosting all of our friends and family that came for the game. Despite a poor showing, the Hawks pulled it off, and we even managed to dodge the impending rain storm that was predicted all day. Ella enjoyed hanging out with her Uncle Sam on Sunday and Monday, and of course, the boys found time for a little golf. Today also marked the end of the pool season in Chicago, so Ella and I made a couple of trips this past week to take advantage of the warm weather. It's hard to believe that summer is coming to an end, but we're looking forward to a fun-filled fall!

Helping me sweep the floor.

Hanging out with her buddy, Nic.

Tailgating at Soldier Field. Jeritt is demonstrating his own version of the 'Serious Face.'

Squeezing in some pool time before they close for the year.