Trip to Kansas

We spent New Year's in Kansas, visiting our family.  When we got there, there was only a little snow on the ground, so my dad stole some from the neighbor's yard and helped the kids build their own snow men, complete with fishing hats.

They were just excited to see snow and be able to play outside.  Lucky for them, it snowed more while we were there and were able to go sledding.

My sister and her family were there too and the kids had a blast playing together.

Grandma bought all the kids matching pj's and slippers.

Alison (6) and Katherine (5)

The house was a little crazy with 6 adults and 7 children under the age of 7, but it was fun and there was never a dull moment.  One afternoon, a dance party even broke out.

Dad and Colin dancing

Beth and Rose (9 months)

getting some after-nap-snuggles from Jonathan

Unfortunately, this post is going to be pretty lame.  Our camera memory card quit working shortly after we arrived...but I can't even tell you that the memories are sealed in our brains instead of the camera.  

You see, shortly after this picture was taken,

Colin and Granddaddy

a stomach virus hit our family.  We went spent the evening with Elizabeth and Kent and everything seemed perfect, except for a slightly grumpy Eli, but what's new?  The rest of the trip is a blur, between taking care of sick little ones and then getting the bug myself.  We even missed my dad's 60th birthday bash and we missed saying goodbye to my sister and her family.  We ended up leaving Kansas 2 days later than planned due to sickness and flight cancellations.

As much as it is a blur, I know we will never forget this trip.  Although there was sickness, time with family is precious and I am so thankful for a week full of it.