On the Road Again

Car trips have been a staple of our summer. We have made significant progress, including Mommy being allowed to sit in the front seat on the way back from the beach. The plan was to leave for Louisville when Max finished Vacation Bible School at lunchtime. We'd grab a quick lunch and the kiddos would get naps, thus ensuring quiet in the car for at least a few hours, and we would arrive shortly before bedtime.

Not exactly.

Mommy quickly returned to the backseat following the only 30 minutes of peace during a 7 1/2 hour trip. Cranky kids, cranky parents, and a lot of highway. And so the trip began..

The only good part of being sandwiched between two car seats for hours is the view of these sweet faces! 

Some new wheels were waiting for our arrival. The kids did not complain about going for this a ride in this type of vehicle!

Now she wants to rest?

Capacity: Two Small Children, 1 Giant Ball

Another hand-holder in the family

It warms my heart to see Max's excitement about visiting his grandparents in Louisville. Additionally, Max now remembers his "friends" in Louisville too - and their toys. Max fondly recalled Jack's and Calvin's play set and was eager to play again. We thought our visit to the Duthie house would help release the the big boy energy before we all invaded Baby Jax's new house the following day.

Not exactly.

Jack, Calvin, and Max practiced their bouncing, running, and tumbling in the the Ward's downstairs play suite. And Amanda was concerned the big kids wouldn't have enough toy choices at their house!

The babies were content to explore more calmly. Jax, Mary Lee, and Sarah seemed satisfied with the entertainment provided by the older brothers. There will be another boy to join the fun by the time we see them again at Thanksgiving!

Full disclosure: Scott took the pictures above. It is completely unnecessary for me to take pictures when we are together because Scott and Amanda are professionals. Max's "friends" (and their Mommies) are so gracious to host these wild reunions!

Max was perfectly comfortable at Nana and Mike's house: constant coloring companions, walking buddies, a recliner for lounging, special goodies from Aunt Nancy, and books galore. No surprise that he wants to visit more frequently!

"It's a great day for a chair!"

If only he was old enough to drive us there....