Shedd Aquarium

Kailey has been on a whale kick since her Aunt Wendy bought her a set of bath whales for Christmas. We therefore jumped at the opportunity to see some real Beluga whales at the aquarium. These shots were taken at an amazing underwater viewing area where Kailey just couldn't believe her eyes. We now sing and read about the Baby Beluga (who is just a few months older than Owen) every single night.

Jelly Belly Factory

This is a must see activity when visitng Waukegan. Every family recommended that we go on the factory tour of the Wisconsin Jelly Belly factory. We did have fun riding the little train through the warehouse and the Willy Wonka-ish Jelly Belly store at the end of the tour. However, I was expecting much more. We watched videos of the creation of Jelly Bellies not the actual process. Considering I still remember the crayon factory episode of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, I was a little disappointed that we didn't see the real deal. Kailey enjoyed it and Owen didn't scream, so I guess it was a success. We did leave with our hats and lots and lots of yummy treats to last us for a while. And Hannah and Maddie, be expecting something especially fantastic and really disgusting that will most certainly please your parents!

Lovin' my brother

After months of ambivalence, Kailey now loves her brother more than anything! Every time she is given the chance, she kisses and loves on her little Owie. I'm thrilled now, but someday soon they'll be cooking up some good stuff for their mom and dad...watch out!

Co-ed Bathing

With Paul gone so much this summer, I have to find ways to make life more effiencient. I knew Owen wasn't ready to sit in the tub with Kailey, but two baths per night was taking up way too much time. I therefore decided to put Owen's bath right in with Kailey. I wasn't sure she'd like it, since she enjoys 'swimming' each night. I couldn't have been more wrong! Kailey LOVES taking a bath with her little brother and considering that Owen just loves his sister no matter what, they were both in hog heaven. Kailey helps me wash Owen by dumping water on his head and he loves it. Everyone is having a great time and it makes mommy's life easier. Win-win!

Owen and Daddy

I know, I know, I always share these kinds of pictures, but honestly, nothing warms my heart more than seeing how much Paul loves his babies and how much they adore him! I am fortunate to have such a beautiful family!

Future Cherry Queen?

Cherry Festival

TC is known as the National Cherry Capital. Each year, there is a pretty fantastic Cherry Festival that includes every kind of cherry/family event one could possibly imagine. During one of Paul's off days, we headed down to the 'Open Space' to taste everything cherry, from sodas to salsas. (Some things just aren't meant to be made with cherries).

After Paul left again, we went with our neighbors to a petting zoo and tractor ride around all of the fruit orchards. Kailey and Owen loved the animals and I loved seeing all of the orchards and learning about all of the different types of cherries grown in this area. So interesting!

It's more of a tourist event, than a local thing, but seeing as we are only here for a few more years, we fit somewhere in between.