Vacation

Vacation has come to an end and we're both heading back to work today. Nate is already there, and I am unfortunately working an evening shift today and tomorrow. It was good while it lasted. It wasn't exactly what we expected, but it ended up being great. The food was less than desirable at the resort, but the weather, the beach, and the water made up for it. It was difficult for me to leave the kids Friday when I met my sister and Aunt Darlene in Clear Lake, even though I knew that they would be well cared for and not lacking love by any means. However, after a few days on the beach and having not a care in the world (except for which beach chairs we wanted that day) I was able to relax and enjoy time for just Nate and me.  That doesn't mean that I didn't call and check in every day.  However, Ava assured me that even though she missed us that she was behaving well and having a great time. 

As I said before, we had a great time and enjoyed our time away.  However, by the end of vacation we were ready to come back...even if it was to subzero temperatures.  There's something about your own bed, and not worrying about if the food is safe to eat.  :)  We flew in Friday evening and then had Saturday to get laundry done, groceries bought, etc so that after we picked the kids up on Sunday we could just hang out and play with them.  They were definitely happy to see us, but didn't seem to be in any distress while hanging out with Grandma & Grandpa.  Ava told Grandma that she was going to live with them.  But don't worry, she would come and visit us on Valentine's Day and Father's Day.  She's so thoughtful.  :)

Below are some pictures highlighting this past week.  I'm not sure who had more fun...the kids or us.  Thanks Aunt Lisa, Uncle Brent, Grandma, & Grandpa Becker for taking such good care of our most precious gifts! 

 

Our first day on the beach with one of the many delicious, fruity, sugary alcoholic drinks that I consumed.

The kids got to go and watch cousin Zacky play basketball

Looks like double trouble!

Well, maybe Grant didn't really watch the game but he got to enjoy a nice snuggle with Grandpa.

We headed into the city with our new friends from Canada and Germany

Another day spent relaxing on the beach

Not a bad view for February

Grant & cousin Zacky

Saying good-bye to Aunt Lisa's house...

and moving on to Grandma & Grandpa's house

"oh no, she's after me!"

I can only assume that they are looking for Herky the cat here.  Can't imagine why he would be hiding.

Heading out on our snorkel trip

Getting on our gear

Got to see this awesome sea turtle as well as a string ray, lobster, and tons of fish

Twins!  Grant learned a new word this past week..."Grandpa".  The little turkey doesn't even say Momma but he'll say Grandpa. 

An evening after dinner

Ava has told me many stories of the treasures they found in the attic.  Who knew that going up to a dusty old room could be so fun. 

Storytime with Grandma

Princess Ava with her Prince dancing.  Ava is wearing a flower girl dress that I wore, as well as a tiara that my mom wore when she was a teenager.

Great Grandma and Grant

Check out this arm Great Grandma

Grandma Great is Grant's new buddy.

Looks like Grant even got Herky to play ball

Cousin Sara can be so silly

This is our crazy sleeper!

Coins in the piggy banks

Caught in the act.

Time to say good-bye to Grandma & Grandpa's for awhile