Playing Catch Up!

Wowza! 2 months sure did fly by! Sorry about the super long break from posting, but I'm back! So, without further ado, here are a few pics from the last little while.

In June, Ella and I made a drive to Iowa to visit with some friends there. We had such a wonderful time - Ella played so well with Abby and Sam, and I had some great conversations with Greg and Sarah. And meeting new little Gabe was definitely one of the best parts of our visit. It was definitely worth the 4 hour drive!

Ella and Sam

Ella and Abby - don't they look like twins?

Demolishing (and later re-building) the wagon

"Baby Gabe" Isn't he just the cutest!?

Then, later in June, my parents made there way over from California to visit and see our home here in Minnesota. It was wonderful to see them again since we hadn't seen them since our trip out there in November. And I think it was a much-needed time away for them as well. I hope they were able to relax a little! We didn't exhaust them too much, I don't think. Although Ella certainly did keep them entertained! Here are a few pictures from their time here:

Playing Dolls with Beppe
Ella modeling her new dress from Beppe! (and eating junk food that probably was given by Pakke)

Ella and her Pakke



Yes, we definitely did enjoy seeing them, and it was sad to see them go. We will miss the constant brewing of coffee, the many hands of Rummy, and the many hours spent sitting outside. Thanks for bringing the cans of California almonds and the jars of the yummiest Dutch applesauce! Ella is enjoying them both!