Family Vacation

We've been looking forward to our family vacation...a trip to IL for a family wedding.  Before the wedding we met Zack's parents and brothers and sisters in Chicago for a fun time.  But before I share those pictures I thought you might like to know what Fernie has been up to:

I can't believe it!  And since this picture was taken she has started sitting up ALL BY HERSELF!  She's growing up WAY too fast :(

On our way to IL we stopped to see our dear relatives!  THANK YOU so much for hosting us. 

 The 13 hour car ride went really well.  On the way there we broke it up into 3 days to make for a more relaxing trip.  I sat in the back with the kids, it made things easier for snack, books and movies.  We had a little routine:  Play, snack, book(s), movie.  By the time we were headed back home it was snacks and movies!!  I "worked" out of 6 bags while we traveled - DVDs, books, toys, snacks, special snacks (candy), and meals (bibs, silverware, sippys). 

Cousins! 

 I should start by saying it was HOT in Chicago!  The first day we headed to the Lincoln Zoo.  Thank goodness the Ape Habitat had AC!

 Zack's parents rented a beautiful house downtown.  Zack and Jack spent a few minutes on the deck blowing bubbles. 

 Jack does like umbrellas...

 What a gentleman!

The following day we headed to the Children's Museum. 

We put out fires...

 Went on a safari...

 Made some fruit soup...

Did some rock climbing...

Went fishing...

Played in the water...

 Built some towers...

 Flung beanbags across the room...

 While Jack was busy as EVER, Grandma played with Fernie in the "baby room". 

 After the museum we went for a walk on Navy Pier.  Nothing cools you down better than ice cream!

 Fernie will have to look at the pictures to remember the walk! 

 Cousin Love!

 Just some proof I WAS on the trip!!!

After our fun time in Chicago we all headed to the wedding a few hours away.  Jack and Zack enjoyed every spare minute in the pool.  I think one morning they were in the pool for 2.5 hours!

 We are so glad we invested in swimming lessons before we left!  Jack LOVED the water.   

Daddy and Fernie ready for the wedding. 

THANK YOU Nana and Papa for a great trip!

The kids did AMAZING on the trip.  We are so blessed.