Tradition

We have decided to start a new family tradition-getting stitches right before we go to Colorado. Last year, Andrew started us off by falling off of a chain onto the sidewalk. He needed stitches in the back of his head the day before we left. This year, Grant volunteered by bashing his forehead on our fireplace 2 days before we left. What a trooper! He didn't cry at all. He laid there calmly while I tried not to throw up all over the place and didn't cry during the whole stitching procedure. It doesn't bother him at all, but I honestly get sick every time I have to change the band-aid!

Lauren's visit

My niece Lauren came out from Colorado to visit for a week. We had a lot of fun hanging out with her, although I don't know if she'll ever recover from the noise. We are now headed to Colorado for 2 weeks so that the fun can continue...

We had a huge rain storm and these 3 ran out to play badminton in it. They were soaked in about 20 seconds. How fun is it to be a kid?!

Alyssa playing in the water at Millennium Park in Chicago.

Hailey standing by the huge water fountains in Millennium Park.

At the Museum of Science and Industry.

Sisters Trip

Over the 4th of July weekend, I had the awesome experience of going to Orlando with my 2 fave sisters. We had so much fun going to Universal Studios (including the AWESOME new Harry Potter rides), Epcot, the beach, Cirque du Soleil, etc. It was great getting to hang out as adults and chat and get to be with just my sisters. We laughed so much and had a great time on all of the thrill rides that our kids couldn't have done. I had a wonderful time and hope that we can do it again sometime soon (if my parents will ever come and watch my kids again!).

Outside Hogwarts. It has the COOLEST ride inside. The wait to get on the ride was amazing, where you got to see the inside of the castle.

By the Hogwarts Express with the nicest English chap.

I won't bore you with all of the pictures, but we had so much fun. Thanks ladies for a wonderful experience!