Chicago Vacation

We're leaving a jet plane.......

Chicago bound and so ready for a family vacation and cooler weather. It's been  crazy hot this summer in Texas and we were ALL ready to get out of the heat. So with 100 pounds of luggage, 1 car seat, 1 stroller, 1 bag full of toys, a diaper bag, the camera bag, Greg's work bag ( did I mention this was a family vacation) and my purse we were off. Are you exhausted yet, I am just thinking about all that stuff..... traveling light, sure does not apply to this family. We had a great time spending time with friends and family, eating at most of our favorite restaurants (some twice) and just some relaxing. (in the cooler weather) But the best part of the whole trip was watching Hunter with ALL his Grandparents. We were super lucky to get to spend a few hours with my parents as well as they passed through Illinois on their way back to Colorado.

 We took Hunter to Brookfield Zoo and The Shedd Aquarium while we were there. Greg and I both have always loved the Brookfield Zoo, and were super excited to experience it with Hunter as well. It turned out to be a beautiful day, and little Hunter had a great time. Except when we tried to get his picture with the big kangaroo. He wanted nothing to do with it. So Mommy had to get in the picture too. 

"Really, another picture Daddy?"

 When Greg was little, his Grandparents would take him and his brother to a place his Grandpa called "Timbucktoo" ( better known as the Train Yards) Since meeting Greg 10 1/2 years ago, he would always talk about going there as a kid. And now, he had the chance to take Hunter there. Who has recently discovered trains, planes and big trucks. Although, it was cold and rainy that morning they had a ball watching the plane's take off and even had a train engineer blow the horn for them. Awesome morning !!!

 Greg and Hunter with Great Grandma Garvey (98 years young)

 Grandma and Grandpa Steffen, Hunter and Grandma and Grandpa Garvey

 A little face painting at the Children's Zoo. Didn't think he would let me do it, but he sat still while I painted the kitty cat whisker's and nose.

 Hunter with Grandma Marino

 Trains, Trains, Trains...... just like his Daddy. Hunter has really taken a liking to them. Especially Thomas the Train.

 Playing outside, in the green grass. Something we haven't had the chance to do yet. So we took full advantage of all the green grass we could.

 Not sure what he's up to in this picture. I'm guessing he's contemplating what to get into next??? Could be wrong,but it seems these day's if it's not one thing it's another. And boy, is he quick........

 While staying with Grandma and Grandpa Garvey, Hunter found a new toy. A Swiffer duster. He would get a hold of it, and not let go.... He's getting pretty good and low dusting now. I'm trying to teach him how to dust the base boards.  This little munchkin loves to clean. Sure hope his love for the broom and duster doesn't go away any time soon.

Greg, Hunter and Grandpa Garvey.

A special Thank You to everyone we saw and stayed with while in Chicago. We had a great time and are already trying to plan our next trip back. We miss and love you all very much !!!!!