10 Days in Iowa

Last night we returned after 10 days in Iowa. It began with Jeritt and I spending the weekend in Des Moines to help support our good friend, Sara, in her fundraising efforts for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by attending the finale gala. It was fun to dress up and celebrate Sara with other college friends! Then Jeritt left for a week of travel for fun and work, while I joined the kids at my parents house. Jack was on the tail end of his latest crud, and by Tuesday, Ella and I had it, too. Thankfully, I had lots of help, especially since Jack was very busy getting into EVERYTHING at grandma and grandpa's house, including digging in potted plants, making phone calls with their cordless phone, and literally going through every cupboard or drawer within reach. Grandpa dubbed him "the home inspector." We also spent time with both great grandparents, including attending Great Grandpa P's 80th birthday party. On our way home on Sunday, Ella and I were able to attend the bridal shower of our soon-to-be aunt and sister-in-law, Jamie. It was a great trip, but we sure were excited to see Jeritt last night!

Our first gala!

Playing the harmonica with Papa.

Helping Grandma with dinner.

Catching him in action.

A picnic on the deck.

Watching the horses.

Jack petting Rex, the pony.

Jack wasn't as sure about the pony ride.

Ella rode Rex all by herself!

Jack terrorized the cat.

He also tried to ride the cat.

Both of my grandma Jeanettes!

Playing "peas porridge."

A Daddy Date



Ella has been asking for a date with Daddy, so on Monday he took her out for a pancake dinner. They had a great time, and she was so excited to be enjoying some solo time with her dad. Jack caught yet another bug mid-week, and has been battling a nasty cough, sore throat, fever, and of course, the ever-present snot. After a couple of miserable days, he's finally starting to act like our happy, funny guy again.

 



Date night with Daddy!

Getting into trouble, per usual.

Reading his favorite book. He likes to look at the 'transportation' page, making his motor sounds while he points at the cars and trucks.

An Early Mother's Day

Due to scheduling conflicts that won't allow the four of us to be together next Sunday, Jeritt surprised me this morning by celebrating Mother's Day a week early! We had a wonderful pancake breakfast with cards and photos, and once again, I'm reminded how lucky I am. The rest of the weekend was great as well, with a beautiful day on Saturday, allowing long walks and plenty of parks. We also enjoyed cousin Jace's first visit to our house! It had been a while since I'd seen him, and it was so good to snuggle him and see him hang out with his cousins. It won't be long before they're all playing together! 

Ella talked her friend, Morgan, into playing waitress with her. She owes him.

Playing dress up.

In a former life, I used to have a slight obsession with James Dean. I forgot about this life-size cardboard cut-out until finding it under our bed. Ella loved meeting James.

A great moment of playing quietly together.

An early Mother's Day surprise!

Ella helping Kristin change Jace's clothes.

Snuggling with Jace.

We can't wait to see them play together when they get older!

Please excuse our pants-less child.