Summer Visit

Last weekend we were in Iowa with family and friends for our semi-annual visit. It is SO difficult being away from people we love so much and it is always such a treat to reconnect. Hannah and Lizzie are growing up incredibly fast and they are as sweet as can be. It was great fun for everyone to finally meet Evan. He was a little trooper as we schlepped him through airports, motels, and restaurants. Hannah was very proud to inform us that she is the "oldest" cousin.

Hannah recently turned six and is now taking horseback riding lessons. She has loved horses for several years now and it was wonderful to see her so comfortable during her second lesson. Lizzie will be three in November and she dazzled us with her daring spirit, going down the "big" water slide with Pete over and over.

I was also grateful for my dear friends, the Sullivan's and Garvey's for attending a memorial Mass for my Mom at the Newman Center in Iowa City. Jan set everything up with Father Ed and it warmed my heart to know that he was the priest my Mom knew when she attended the Newman Center in Iowa City. Jan had us all back to her home for dinner and Geri hosted us overnight. I am truly blessed to have these special friends in my life. We've all lost our Mom's now and the thread of our friendship is stronger than ever.

Steve and Angie are so easy to travel with and we appreciate them making the trip with us. It was fun to tour the State Capitol with Pete, have a "girl's" afternoon getting pedicures, having everyone swim and stay at the Ramada Saturday night, and to just sit back and be proud of our sons, their families, and the lives that they have made for themselves.