Chicago with Jeff and Charity

Deb watched the kids while Brian and I went into Chi-town with Jeff and Charity. On Saturday we shopped Michigan Avenue and then had dinner at Lou Malnati's. We sat outside and enjoyed Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Then we headed over to Navy Pier and rode the Ferris Wheel. The views were incredible. On Sunday we enjoyed another good meal at P.F. Chang's before heading home. It was a nice get-away and we always love spending time with Jeff and Charity.

Raging Road Rally

Last night I ran a 5K in Lanark with a bunch of friends in the running club. It was one of the hardest races I've done, hot and hilly. I pushed it and could hardly see straight when I crossed the finish line, but I felt really proud of myself for not quitting and I got 2nd in my age group. It was a fun post-race party and I enjoyed riding up and back with Heather and Brenda.

Father's Day

For Father's Day we went to Gurnee and had dinner with my parents and Jeff and Jordyn. I felt bad that my dad had to cook, but his cooking and baking expertise is one of the things we most appreciate about him. We had a nice visit and the next day Brian and I took the kids to Great America. It was a fun family day!

Touch a Truck '10

On Friday night I went into Chicago with Sarah and Julie. We ate at Harry Carrey's and then saw the Patti Griffin concert at Chicago House of Blues. I didn't take pictures, but it was a really fun girls' night and good bonding time. The next day I was really tired, so Brian to the kids to Touch-a-Truck by himself. It looks like they had a great time.

I hope the trucker didn't mind 2 little monkeys jumping on his bead.

Niabi Zoo with Friends

Last Thursday, Lori, Anita, and I took our kids to the zoo. It was a gorgeous day and the kids had fun riding the train and carousel, and just running around looking at all the animals.

Carnival

Krista and I took the boys to the Carnival a couple weeks ago. Jadon only rode a few rides, but the highlight was the big ferris wheel. It was a thrill even for me. Leah stayed home with dad to work on potty training. I'm happy to report that she is fully potty trained now. Hooray!

Babysitting 2010

This school year I babysat for Krista's children again. I watched Brecken and his baby brother, Micah, 3 afternoons/week. Jadon and Leah always looked forward to them coming and the kids played so well together. Here are some pictures from our last day together.

Here's a random shot of Leah laying in a pile of stuffed animals that she and Jadon had brought down from their rooms, into the dining room.

I took these pictures at the Awana's Awards night. Jadon and Brecken, along with some other 3 & 4 year olds, were recognized for completing an entire Cubbie book. Brecken was one of 2 kids named Cubbie of the Year.

Memorial Day 2010

We went to Larry and Cindy's house for our annual Memorial Day Cookout. The cousins had so much fun together and all the adults enjoyed visiting outside on such a beautiful day.

Here is a picture from Mother's Day. Brant and his family came up after church and we surprised Deb with a nice lunch.

We celebrated Dylan's 3rd birthday at Jungle Bungle.

We also spent time with the Kylie, Dylan, and family when they came up for a day to help us with our Yard Sale and Lemonade stand.