We had a wonderful, fun and relaxing (yes, it was actually relaxing!!) week up in Wheaton with the extended Gieser family. Eight cousins under 7 years old this year and eight adults. The last time we had been together was two years ago, and we were all gratified this time to see how well the kids played together - which meant we adults had a bit more time to talk with each other, in between crazy, loud meals that is.
On our first full day the majority of the family headed to downtown Chicago to the Aquarium, which was a first for most of the kids (I stayed behind with Mattias and Hawk, and Nonna). They had a blast and saw some amazing fish and ocean mammals.
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| L to R: Elsie, Avery, Bella, David, Timo, Millie |
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| Noah & Katie, Tiff & Steve |
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| Brothers! |
Nonna found a deal on a blow-up pool (from Aldi) and the kids spent many, many hours out in the backyard splashing and playing water games. It was perfect. Timo and David in particular seemed to enjoy it and had a blast splashing each other and rough-housing.
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| Meanwhile, I spent a lot of my time with this little one! |
Typical scene for the week - the Lego table (with boys in swimsuits) and the food table (with the 2 youngest - not counting Hawk - still eating).
On the 2nd morning we woke up to this parade of penguins and sign that had been placed on the front lawn. Naturally, Nonna also had matching outfits for all the kids.
The best time is just sitting on the steps at the house, chatting and relaxing while the kids play.
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| In the playhouse, which doubled as the art house this year, filled with supplies |
More coming in the next post...
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