The ongoing vacation

We took the week of July 4th off and it was the best decision we've made in a long time. Ah, relaxation with no signs of work. Our first stop was Lake Sakakawea for some camping with Gpa Steve and Gma Debi.

We all relaxed, expect for Gus. He could only take Nora's pestering for so long.


Trying to be patient,but I can't! Get away, Nora!

She was happier walking around with Ross, anyway.

Twins! (or so I think.)
Nora had way more fun playing in the pack-n-play than she did sleeping in it.

Grandma Debi, you're hilarious.

You may think Gus was relaxing here, but no. He sat down just long enough for me to take this photo with his Gpa Steve.

Who need a professional photographer when you can get a glorious family photo such as this while sitting around a campfire? Just kidding. I'll be scheduling an appointment for us for August.

Gus liked tormenting Belle with his new water gun. Thankfully, she has the heart of a dove and tolerates anything.

Nora liked sitting in this chair by Gpa.

After camping, we headed up to Minot to see Gma Vickie and Gpa Dave. Which brought us to the next pet my kids tormented while on vacation: Lily the cat. See why we do not have a pet.

Sofie came over for a visit and luckily, brought her baseball glove. Gus and Sof actually played catch for a few minutes. Like real catch. I was impressed!

After Sofie had had enough, Gus coaxed his Aunt Patty into being the pitcher for a few innings.
This kid is gaga for baseball.

He's so gaga, that later that evening, Gpa Steve and Gma Debi made a full-fledged baseball field in their back yard. We all played.


And the vacation does not stop there, oh no! When we returned to Fargo, we got out of the car, used the bathroom, changed into a new pair of swimming trunks, and off we went to the Holiday Inn!

Our friends, Jaime, Paul, Carson, and Ashton were in town from Mpls. Also in town, all the way from LA, was another dear high-school friend, Sara, and her 5 delightful kids. What an amazing mom! I'm in awe, and promise never again to complain about the trials of having 2 kids.

Here's Gus enjoying the pizza party with a smiley Townes and a tired Evelyn.

Jaime and Carson had mixed feelings about this picture.

Gus and Owen played foosball. I bet Owen let him win.

Here's Ashton and Evelyn.

The party and water activities continued the very next day when Gus played outside with Ashton, Carson, and his best GF, Ava! She came all the way from Omaha to visit. It was a day for sun, fun, and friends.

And finally, I ask you, what vacation would be complete without baked beans? 1 out of 2 kids in our household recommends Bush's Baked Beans for every meal.


Can we please take 10 days off every month? I would be so much more productive at work if I could. Vacation is the best!