St. Louis

Last weekend we traveled to St. Louis to visit extended family.  It was our first venture with both kids in the car for a significant amount of time.  With the exception of a 45 minute scream fest on behalf of Silas, the car rides went pretty well.  After we got through the first night (Silas decided he'd wake up every 2 hours!), it was smooth sailing.  Night #2 went much better and the kids had a ton of fun swimming in my aunt and uncle's pool.  It was great to see family and have everyone meet our little guy for the first time!

Burning some energy during a break from the car

 Changing a diaper in a small car is no easy task.

 Hugs for Grandpa

 Dads and their kids :)

 Lily playing with cousin Mackenzie

 All smiles with Uncle Jim

 and with Aunt Mary

 I am in love with the squishiness factor of his rolls in this photo.

Grandpa and Silas

Old Settler's

The kids had fun at our hometown celebration and the weather couldn't have been better this year!

 Lily and GaGa

 This was the first time Lily has ever initiated getting in a bounce house!

 This is how you will find our daughter anytime there are loud sounds present.

 Silas is already into tractors.  He was mesmerized.

 Aunt Abby

 with cousin Ali

 Silas and Papa

 enjoying some downtime with GaGa

 up front for the cutie contest

and of course, a ride on the golf cart was a must!

Speedo

I have to say, this is the only male I care to see in a Speedo -

Simple Joys of Summer

And just to keep it real...........

2 Little Monkeys Hangin From a Tree

Kite Flying

Even Silas took a turn!
I don't think most 7 month olds could pull this off.  

I'm tellin' ya, the boy's got strength.

Happy Fourth!

We celebrated by watching fireworks on the 3rd (just me and Lily), going to the Urbandale parade and doing sparklers.