A visit long overdue...

We drove to Minneapolis a few weeks ago for a visit that was long overdue.  We had all intentions of getting there last summer and then for multiple reasons ended up canceling our trip.  It's become a place where there are lots of people to visit and not near enough time to visit them all.  A good problem I guess!  

Our newest people to visit in the Twin Cities are Sam and Emily!  They moved there last summer from Chicago to be closer to Emily's family and to start a family of their own. They have a fountain/pond in their front yard and the kids had a GREAT time rock climbing and catching frogs.

They started outside early in the morning and then any chance they could get until bedtime!  Who knew that small area could entertain two children for hours on end?

On our first day we went to an apple orchard with Auntie Emily.  Norah enjoyed taking in all of the hustle and bustle.  Unfortunately we couldn't pick apples that day but we purchased some, tried some fresh apple donuts, and played on the hay bales, a tire swing and a play train.

The colors were amazing.  Steve and I think we hit the "peak" of fall.  Everywhere we went one of us would point out a tree that appeared to be burning with reds, oranges and yellows.  It was unseasonably warm so the perfect time to be outside.

That night we went to some friends for dinner.  The LaCroix's are long time friends of Steve and have become mine as well over the years.  They are a wonderful family and have an incredible house.  It was fun to see Braden and Olivia run around with their children.  They bounced on the trampoline, played basketball in their basement (yes, they have a half court inside!) and drew pictures.  We really enjoyed visiting with Steve and Sue.  They are such great people.

The next day the kids and I drove to see the Axe family.  Steve went golfing for the day and joined us later that evening for dinner.  We played at the park where Sammy and Norah enjoyed the baby swings.

She showed off her scrunchy nose!

Sammy is an adorable little boy.  He and Norah will be good buds someday. :)

The boys plus Olivia played army.  Vincent and Braden play super well together as do William and Olivia.  We just wish we saw them more often.  Despite having six children around all day, Meg and I did manage to chit chat a little and catch up on life as we know it.  Coffee was consumed... as was tea and wine.  We've always coined ourselves, "Beverage Buddies."  We LOVE visiting over a glass of pretty much anything! :)

Back at Sam and Em's the next day we enjoyed a delicious breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon and fruit. Norah played in the recycling and found herself a beer bottle to keep her busy. :)  What is it with babies and beer bottles?

Sam and Braden played quite a bit outside with water and frogs!

Then we drove to a park called Chutes and Ladders.  There are a ton of different contraptions to climb up and then multiple slides to make your way down.  It was really fun but I was glad we had a few of us to chase the kids around.  Olivia was fearless and climbed up right away.  Braden needed a little more time and encouragement to make his way up.  The best part is that adults can play too!

Norah got pretty heavy after a while so Sam volunteered to hold her.  They had a little conversation and Norah did a lot of looking up and smiling.  It was adorable.

This will be them in about a year!  Yipeeee.  Sam and Emily are expecting their first baby mid-April.  Emily hasn't felt the greatest but is a trooper and things are starting to look up.  They will be wonderful parents and we can't wait for Braden, Olivia and Norah to meet their cousin.

That night we went hiking along a great path.  We were able to spend some time outside, get a little exercise, and take in more beautiful colors.  Afterwards we drove into the little town near their house and got ice cream.  Yummy!

Who can resist this picture?  The hand holding didn't last too long but I was able to snap a shot.  I want so badly for them to be good friends. I know that at times my hopes/wishes/expectations can be unrealistic but these little moments melt my heart. I don't think there is anything more important than family.

By the end of our trip Braden had caught quite a few frogs.  Some using this net and others with his bear hands. I think Olivia may have even caught one herself. 

On our way out of town we drove to Nikki and Steve's new house.  It is a great house - super cute!  I had fun listening to them talk about all they hope to do.  There is nothing like your first house together. :)  

Lola is getting so much more alert!  She was smiling and watching all that was going on.  It was fun to snuggle her for a short while.

We had a wonderful time and appreciate everyone for their hospitality.  Hopefully our next visit isn't too far away.  The drive was long but the kids did great so if not before, we'll make our way back up sometime mid-April to meet the newest member of our family!!