Red, White and very blue

My little Brother Ethan has been visiting for the last couple weeks, and for the culmination of his visit this weekend we planned a big trip to Michigan lake and Chicago.

It was perfect beach weather, and Daphne ate less sand than I anticipated.

But she didn't like Bryce burying her
We had wanted to camp, but it was 4th of July weekend. SO we camped in a trashy motel. I say "camped" because we definitely used our sleeping bags, and considered putting up the tent.
We went into Chicago to see the Cub's play. This is the only picture I got of Chi-town, the train.
On the way home we stopped in some tiny town for a freedom festival. A few rides and some funnel cake makes for a celebration in my book.


This slightly disturbing looking picture is of Ethan helping me by getting Daphne dressed while I worked on other things.
Such as: treats for the families Bryce Home Teaches,
And treats for the party we went to.
We went to an awesome party at our friends the Henricksen's house. Amazing ribs and lots of fun people.


And of course lots of things for Ethan to light on fire.

Now my little buddy has gone home, and I'm feeling pretty blue about it.

We miss you Ethan. Come back soon!

Spokane

We got to go home for one wonderful week. All my siblings made it home, which made the visit extra special. We spent a lot of time just sitting around enjoying the beautiful weather but we had a little excitement too.

We went out to see the Palouse Falls. I'd never been out there and the falls were raging. It was a spectacular sight.

My brother Daniel and his little family

Sweetest little girl ever.

Mom and Dad ( it was a very windy day)

The girls

The whole gang

Anna and I reliving our high school days with matching tiaras, cheer leading fleeces and, my favorite, the identical Pizza Hut name tags. We contemplated trying on our cheer leading skirts, but opted for dignity rather than depression. We plan on doing this every time we both go home for the next 80 years or so to document our progression through life.

Saw a couple of my little brother's baseball games. He's a total all-star!

My mom and sister + sister-in law threw a baby shower for me at Grandma Daines' house. It was beautiful and so sweet of them. I loved getting to visit with so many friends I haven' t seen in a while.

Mom, her sister Chris, Ali and Ann

Grandma, aunts and cousins

Friends from the good old Belle Terre Ward

Bryce's mom and sister

High school friends Celeste and DaNae
There was also 4th of July, lots of hikes and craft projects and the usual stuff. But the best part of going home was getting to see so many friends. Thanks to everyone who took the time to visit with me!

On the road again

We're in Omaha visiting 5 of the cutest kids in the world.

This is the first year I've been away from Spokane for this particular holiday. I miss my family, the flag cake and I forgot to bring my patriotic flip flops. However, balloon swords fights with our niece and nephews are a blast.

(I'm making a pirate face)

Next week we will be in exotic South Dakota for a week of Fortner Family fun! I'm looking forward to seeing Mt. Rushmore again, exploring the Black Hills, hot springs, bonding with Bryce's siblings and lots of relaxation.


Happy Fourth everyone. God bless America!