Family visit fun

Paw Paw and Kacki came to visit us again a couple weeks ago. We filled the days with fun!

Of course there were presents! Nanny sent the kids some things, and there were birthday presents for Russell and Paige:

We found an awesome deal on a swingset – on clearance for $50 at Aldi! We used some of Paige’s birthday money to get it (although it’s as much of a present for the other two), and Jason and his parents put it together. The kids love it!

We spent some time at Navy Pier on Saturday. We had never been before. In hindsight, we were not very prepared. I didn’t realize how crowded it would be, I didn’t really know what there was to do (besides the Ferris wheel), and Paige was not in the best mood. We made the best of it but I definitely would have changed some things! But anyway, here are the happy pictures :)

You can see there was a stunning view of the city skyline!

I was going for a family photo, but one kid wouldn’t look at the camera and one refused to participate.

I did remember to bring snacks – I had a little foresight!

Jason, Russell, Meredith, and I went on the Ferris wheel ride. It was really cool and I’m glad we did it. It is right near Lake Michigan (well, the whole pier is), and you get a great view with audio commentary of what you see.

Another night (after Paige was asleep), we roasted marshmallows in our fire pit! The kids had never done it before and ate way too many – but I guess that’s what you’re supposed to do, right?

Kacki cut down the sticks for roasting the marshmallows while Jason tended to the fire. We were laughing about being country stereotypes in the big city, with Grandma sittin’ by the fire whittlin’! :)

P and K, we miss you! Come back anytime!

Paige’s First Birthday Family Celebration

Here are just a few pictures from Paige’s actual birthday on July 18 (and family trip to the children’s museum on the 19th). We had a simple but fun time as a family!

Paige got a pink rocking pony from us that she (and the other 2) love!

Paige also got a toddler climber/slide from Pops and Mimi. They all love this too :)

More presents later on (mostly clothes):

She also enjoyed a pink cupcake, and Russell took a picture of me and Jason with her:

The next day, we went and had some fun at the children’s museum. All the kids love that place! They always find the boat first thing and play there for a long time:

Play, play, and more play! :)

Lots of fun celebrating our baby girl!

Swim Like a Fish

Russell has been taking swim lessons for a month now. He’s at an awesome swim school (recommended by our neighbors) in the beginner class. He’s learned how to go under water and kick really well. He can almost swim, but he doesn’t use his arms very well. Either way, it’s leaps and bounds better than he’s ever done! He is learning so much!

Way to go, little fish :)