Busy, busy summer!

Well, once again, I realized it has been almost a month since my last post. So much for my personal goal of posting here at least once a week! Summer has been busy for us! After returning from the cruise, we jumped right into the 4th of July festivities. We went down to the riverfront in Davenport on the 3rd, and were amazed by the spectacular display. I got some great photos with my new camera, and I will try to get a couple posted. Then for the 4th we drove up to Grand Mound, where the display never disappoints! The next weekend had more fireworks Friday night to kick of Eldridge Days. Saturday was a family reuinion picnic with Patrick's Mom's family, then home quickly for the Eldridge parade. Katie got to ride on a float for Curves with my mom. She had a blast waving to everyone and throwing candy to the other kids. Patrick then headed to Atlanta for a couple days for a CPE class on something captivating like Estate Tax Planning. I know you are are jealous!! The 21st of July we celebrated Patrick's birthday. At the same time we had a Half-birthday party for Katie & Jacob. This is a family thing we started last year. Since their birthdays are so close to Christmas, this kind of spreads out the gift giving a little, not to mention making it easier on everyone with holiday spending. We were lucky to have great weather, and spent most of the party outside. A few days later, my dear friend Leslie came to pick up her God-daughter, Katie, to take her home for a visit. So, off they drove to Indiana. Katie got some good bonding time with "Aunt" Leslie, "Uncle" Matt, and sweet little Emma. She got a little homesick the second night, but we drove out to pick her up the next day. Our visit was wonderful, but MUCH too short! It made me miss them more than ever!! We left Indiana and headed into Chicago for the day since we were only 2 hours away. We spent the afternoon at Shedd Aquarium, which is always a favorite of ours. We've spent the last couple weeks at home. We spent the day at the Mississippi Valley Fair last week. All three kids LOVED the rides, and went non-stop until the end of the wristband time. We're also trying to enjoy the pool, and the last of our days before Katie heads back to school. Katie starts first grade next week on the 16th. We have already gone shopping for new clothes and all of her supplies. She's a little nervous, but also excited to see her friends again. Well, it's getting late. I want to get to bed before this thunderstorm ends. It's one of my favorite sounds!