Family Visit

Still catching up ... back in August, my parents, my sister Heidi, brother-in-law Thinh, and my three nephews traveled to Indiana from Pennsylvania for a visit! We had been looking forward to this for many months -- I still can't believe that their visit has come and gone! We had a really good time. There was lots of playing and time outdoors. Here are some of my favorite photos from their visit.

My youngest nephew, Mason, is 4 years old. He LOVED pretending to be a chef. He wore this outfit most of their visit.

This is my second nephew, Andrew. He's 6 years old and he did a great job playing with Simon. Andrew is really good with younger children.

All of the boys love playing with cars, building things, etc. They had a blast setting up various race tracks and obstacle courses.


Oh my! Another photo of Simon planting a kiss on his friend Ayla. He just loves Ayla! I love how Ayla is looking at the camera like, get this guy away from me! Don't worry, Ayla -- we're working on his manners!

We had a picnic on Sunday afternoon and rented the Boilermaker Special to give us a ride. We had a blast!! Some, who shall remain anonymous, were a little embarrassed about being in the back of the Special but I loved it!! So did Simon and the other kids. They took us all over Lafayette and we had a great time!

This is my oldest nephew, Brandon, who is 9. He and Simon really enjoyed the ride.

Pausing for a photo before the Special had to go to its next party.

My Mom, aka Mimi, is reading to Simon. She was so happy that Simon let her hold him!

Oh these boys!! They just love rough-housing with Uncle Mark!

One night during their visit, we had a birthday party for Simon since my family can't be here on Simon's actual birthday. He caught on quickly to opening presents and like most kids, preferred the toys to the clothing.

Simon's cousins loved helping him to open his presents.

After opening gifts, we had some birthday cake! Simon smiled when we sang to him. We think he kind-of understood -- we just need to keep him from trying to grab the flame with his fingers!

Mmmmmm .... cake!

Simon was alway happy to hitch a ride with one of his cousins. Four boys plus three tricycles equals a few squabbles but they really did ok!

We made a trip to the Columbian Park Zoo -- so fun!!

I love this photo! Especially Thinh as a butterfly.

There was also a photo session with Uncle Mark, a trip to Tropicanoe Cove and an afternoon at Monkey Joe's. I told my nephews that my goal was to show them such a good time that they begged their parents to come back every summer. I think I succeeded!!