Bobby and I flew to IL a couple weeks ago and had about five days with family and friends and it was wonderful. It was a huge treat to walk off the plane and be greeted by Mom, Nikki, Kiara and Vera. There is almost nothing better than seeing them all waiting there and having Kiara run at top speed into my arms. It was awesome. The only thing better that I have ever had like that is when Bobby and I used to fly back and forth...and seeing his face after a long flying day. Now, he never ran up and jumped into my arms like Kiara did...but still sweet just the same. =)
We had lots of time with Kiara and Vera and my sister, and Mom and Dad of course too. It's so nice to just "be around" and have time with everyone. We had several afternoons that Nikki had the girls over at Mom and Dad's and just hung out in the living room. That was so nice to have and appreciate her carting around the girls back and forth from Morton to make it easier for us. Bobby and Dad got to try out Dad's new guns (yes guns). Bobby and him went shooting a couple times and really enjoyed all that boy stuff together. We also timed the trip just right, as my cousins little girls were having a birthday party one night that we were home. Lexi and Brooke turned 3 and 1 respectively. That day was filled with lots of family on both my Mom and Dad's side. My Grandpa Bud, who is an amazing duck carver, blessed Bobby and I with our own set of ducks to take back with us...and we even got them back to AZ alive, so to speak (no damage!). Kiara also had a performance for her singing/dancing group...so not only did I get to go to that and watch the performance, but we even got a dress rehearsal the day before at Mom's house (video below). We also got to see Vera's somersault in person too (video below)! The weather was a bit chilly to swim, but we did get to swim a little with Kiara in the new salt water pool at my parent's house.
Also, I was FINALLY able to meet little Alex...my best friend Jen's baby. Since moving across the country, the things like this - having a baby and being there - aren't as easy anymore. These are the things I truly miss living so far away...but the wait was well worth it. He is the most adorable little guy in the whole world! He is a great mix of Brad (her hubby) and her side of the family...I see both sides in his little face. Also, Jen has been raising a strong little boy (he's only three months!) as he is already rolling over - both ways! And...as you hold him up, he is using his legs to walk too! Probably not so much fun for Jen in a few more months when Alex is getting everywhere on his own! I went over one afternoon and got to meet him for the first time, go on a walk with them, and just catch up with Jen...and then Bobby and I hung out one night too so he could meet the little guy. He was putting on a pretty good show for us being a great baby...all smiles and contentment. I think he is a weeeee bit naughtier on a regular basis. =)
Again, Bobby and I had so much fun on this trip. My parents, as usual, are just amazing to be around and talk with. Bobby and I love them so much and appreciate everything they've done for us...as well as the wonderful example they continue to set for us.
These pictures are in opposite order...so our final day in IL is first and first day is last...Blogspot is not easy to manipulate and will have to remember next time to upload them in the opposite order! Also, a bunch more pictures at the link below too from my Facebook page.
www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=85110&id=511058149&l=60406b5586
They were so cute playing together at my parents' pool our last day in IL
Sweet thing!
Wet girl!
Vera loved this!
Kiara the cutie
Liking the pool a little more all the time
Birthday girls and sisters, Lexi and Brooke - cake time!
Mom and I at the party
Erica (cousin) and Lexi and Brooke - present time!
Kiara - thoroughly enjoying the yummy chocoloate covered strawberries!
Bobby getting a little Vera lovin!
Vera and I - I think I just fed her chocoloate and whipped cream!
Baby Alex - how cute is he?
Sister love
Kiara performing and singing her heart out
Vera needed another hug from big sis in between songs
So cute - watching her sister perform
Kiara singing a solo
She's just so darn cute
Alex and me - he's so sweet
Jen and her little guy
Kiara acting a little crazy
I love this picture!
Vera wanted in on the action
There she is - little miss performer!
Playing at the park, or posing at the park...not sure which one!
Love her!
Tough guys - his little side kick throughout our time in IL
So precious!Kiara's dress rehearsal and such a good big sister! She is so loving and kind to her little sister. It can't be easy sharing the spotlight now when she is used to not sharing the spotlight!
Somersault time!
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