Fun in St. Louis

We were so blessed to get the opportunity (and invitation) to go to St. Louis for Thanksgiving vacation. My sister-in-law’s parents invited us to come to their house and stay for the week. Originally, we thought we might drive and make it a fun road trip…but then we came to our senses and realized that a 10-hour drive with an infant and a 4-year-old would be insanity! So, the hour and a half flight would be much easier.

We left Monday afternoon and stayed through Saturday evening, but still it went by a little too fast. We had so much fun shopping and baking and playing games…and the guys even went shooting and to a gun show! They also got tickets for the four of us to go see the Transiberian Orchestra, which was incredible. It was a big deal because it was the first time Lauren and Nolan have ever had a babysitter. (I was pretty proud of myself for only calling twice to check in!)

Amidst all the fun, Nolan managed to get an ear infection, so he was pretty miserable for a couple days until the antibiotics kicked in. But, after that he was back to his normal self and having fun practicing pulling himself up on everything in sight. He even figured out how to climb up the stairs – yikes! I definitely have my hands full now with him all over the place!! Oh, and he also got to try some mashed potatoes (which he didn’t like) and pumpkin pie (which he loved).

Ryan and I agreed that it was one of the best vacations we have ever had as a family and we are so grateful for the amazing hospitality and generosity that they showed to us during our stay! Here are some pictures from our trip:









Lauren & "Nana"















Nolan in the tub













Learning to make Nancy's famous fudge













Helping Nolan master the stairs