Cousins

Boy, we just got back to the mountains and I realized that I have got to finish my summer blogs ASAP.  School is about to start and I really want to be all in to the new school year blogs!  So lets finish up our NC journey.

Bob and I were ecstatic when Darcie and Brent invited us to come out to North Carolina to visit.  Its shameful to say it but they have had 2 kids since we last saw them.  Wow how time flies!  We arrived and the kiddos instantly connected.  Its like they are related or something.

Mr. Nathan couldn't wait to show Uncle Bob his astronaut outfit.  I think Bob's first question was "OOOO, do they have this in my size?"  This kid is fun and full of adventure.  He loves to build trains and talk space.

Mr. Zachary is the newest member to our clan.  He was completely content to just follow all the kids around and attempt to do whatever they were doing.  Pretty cute.

Miss Jess is the sweetest little kid.  She has such a fun spirit.  She is bold and fierce and just a happy little girl.  She and Evie found each other right away and discovered a fast friendship.

We only had a day and a half in Charlotte before we took our brood down to Myrtle beach for some surf and sand.   We enjoyed the park and snacks just did our best to play.  We even found ourselves in a local pool! (of course we did)

Grandma Jill was in heaven with all of these grandkids and after many, MANY attempts, this picture here is the closest we got to everyone looking the same direction.  It was perfect and frankly everything it should be.

When we got back from our little jaunt to Myrtle Beach (more on that next) we continued the memories with a trip to the Nature and Science Museum in Charlotte.  

The Big highlight of our museum trip was the great Longmire build of 2017.  Bob LOVES to see how high he can build stuff (must be where his kids get it).  Nathan and Lily got to help when he built up over his head.  I was SO impressed because this remained intact until all 4 big kids got to pull it down together!  What a fun memory.  I am not sure who was having more fun.....Bob, Grandma Jill, or the kids.  Bob is a cool Dad.

Our trip was busy and we fit all we could in the 6 days.  The pictures below should tell you all you need to know.  I think its safe to say that we were officially Summer tuckered out.  What a great trip!

Together Again

We have done some serious travel this summer.  It was time and we have had the energy to do it.  I am EXCEPTIONALLY grateful for the big trip to visit Aunt Darcie because the Lord orchestrated this amazing reunion with my dear friend Grace.  We sure did miss Sebron, but it was absolutely wonderful to squeeze her neck and snuggle her kids.  This friendship is very sweet and although we may be miles apart, she and I are truthfully very close at heart.

Me and this little beauty are buds.  I adore Lulu and her sweet and spitfire spirit.  She is special, no doubt.

We only had a few hours to visit and it felt like a whirlwind, but seeing all of our kids together and hearing the noise of their laughter and play was delightful.  We managed to get all of our kids to sit still in one place for a couple of pictures which is saying a lot considering they were all anxious to play.

Mr. Jancsi is so grown up these days.  Grace and I always reminisce about the wee little babies they were when we lived together.  God has been so good to us over the years and this little guy is growing up into a wonderful young man.

This little chickadee is a ball of fire just like Evie Frances.  She is fun and spunky and bold and fearless.  Hayva has got a bunch of life and is the epitome of bold.  I love her.

Uncle Bob was only too happy to line the kids up for spins and rides.  Let me tell you, where there are kids and Bob there is fun to be had.

Our visit was so short, but it was very sweet.  I miss this woman and her family, but am so proud of her.  She is a hugely successful soap maker (Check out Jessup Ranch Soaps on Facebook!!), incredible mother, beautiful wife and a spectacular friend.  I am grateful for her and her family and their presence in our life.