There and Back

It is so hard to believe that my long awaited dream of going to America with my little family is now a thing of the past. August 23, we headed to America. We were welcomed by my family and delicious Iowa peaches. It was so special to see my family and for them to get to see Daniel.
We were able to do so many things while we were there. First of all we headed west and and went to Glacier National Park. There we had a family reunion, we met up with my brother and his family, and Matthew came out too. We even were joined by my grandma for a couple of days. It was a great time of being together and catching up. Janis enjoyed hiking in the mountains and seeing grizzly bears and all kinds of other wildlife.
We then headed to Yellowstone, where we got to see the geysers and other odd natural wonders there. We did get to see Old Faithful erupt, though she was behind schedule and people were beginning to drift away. Janis was impressed by the buffalo.
After heading back to Iowa we then made a trip to Minnesota, to see some relatives. Then we went to Wisconsin to meet up with my dear friend Josie. On the way back to Iowa I was able to take Janis to see Crown College, where I graduated 5 years ago. It was special to be able to show him a place where I spent so many happy moments. We also were able to visit another college friend on the way back to Iowa. It was great to be able to see so many old friends and see what is happening in their lives.
We spent the last week and a half just visiting with my family, doing things at home and just doing a little bit of normal life stuff. A shower was held for Daniel and he received so many beautiful gifts, we are so thankful for such great church friends. It was a pleasure to be able to show off our little charming boy. He has been so smiley lately, and is like a new baby. He must be outgrowing the fussy stage, maybe the operation helped.
My family spoiled us, treating us to so many cozy moments. It was so good to walk with my sister, cook with my mom, hear my Dad preach, and spend time with my brothers. I loved watching them all holding, visiting with and just being with Daniel. It was also special to have my family get to know Janis better too.
We are now home and it is so hard to believe that this long awaited trip is behind us. It is still warm in Iowa, and here it is cold, windy and wet. When the sun does peek out, the leaves are all ablaze and that is lovely.
Daniel is such a joy to care for now, as he is learning new things every day. He is so chatty and takes pleasure just in looking at us. It is so cute to see his face light up when he sees me or Janis. What a blessing our little boy is.
If you are interested in seeing pictures of our vacation contact me by e-mail.
Have a blessed day.