Visit

We recently had a very nice visit from my parents and my brother. Everett and Ashley were thrilled; Everett talked about them coming for weeks before it happened. My parents drove out our new (used) honda pilot, and for many mornings before their arrival, Everett would open our front door and ask if our new blue SUV was here yet. Ashley and Everett were both very happy when the day finally came that they could see it and ride in it.

(Insert picture of new car here)

We've been happy with it. It took me a little while to adjust to driving a larger car, but now I really like how it handles.

My brother often goes places with a wheelchair because he is not very steady on his feet. Everett and Ashley enjoyed the novelty of a chair they could push around easily.

Our living room is small but the kids still enjoyed going for rides.

William loved the extra attention from his grandparents. They saw William when he was blessed, but even two months brings a lot of changes. He is more responsive and more giggly now, and it is fun to see him begin to recognize relatives.

There was only one day it was cool enough to enjoy being outside, so we took advantage of that and walked to a playground.

Ashley and Everett had a lot of fun showing off to their grandparents.

Another day, we went on a paddle-wheel boat ride on the Mississippi. It was terribly hot and muggy, but I think everyone still enjoyed the trip.

Look how pretty and little my mom is!

Everett didn't last too long on the fourth level before he wanted to go down to the first level where it was air-conditioned.

Ashley didn't seem to mind the heat. This picture makes it look like we were close to the water, but this was the top (fourth) level of a large boat. It would be a good drop.

One thing my kids always enjoy about their grandparents is the iphones they carry around.

My mom has lots of little apps the kids can do. Everett and Ashley can spend a long time at it. Notice how they're all in their pajamas? First thing we heard the morning this picture was taken was, "Can I pway games on your phone, gwamma?"

We were sad to see my family go, but we had a great visit and we are looking forward to Christmas when we can see them (and Joel's family) again.