Our summer vacation

 Waiting to board the plane

 Here we go! 

We were lucky enough to make it back to Chicago this summer for a whirlwind two week visit. I swear, no matter how long we're in town it always seems to fly by! There are so many things to do, people to visit and places to see. If we missed you I really do apologize - I promise it's not personal!

 First stop always has to be Swiss Maid for smiley face cookies!

 Hiking in Veteran's Acres, the park I used to play at when I was little

 

We spent the first few days of our trip back in Crystal Lake visiting with friends in my hometown. Then we hopped on the train for an overnight trip to the city, which was a really fun stroll down memory lane. Of course the kids did all this stuff when we lived here, but I doubt they remember much. We went to the Field Museum, the Art Institute and Millennium Park all in one fun-filled afternoon. The next day we walked down Michigan Avenue and did a little shopping and site-seeing. We also had lunch with our beloved Sarah and got to meet her beautiful little girl, Charlotte!

 Getting ready to take the train

Pretending to be a T-Rex with Nana and Papa

One guess why Paige wanted me to take this picture...("It's a BUTT!")

Lunch at The Gage (deep fried pickles anyone?!?)

Hanging out at The Bean

Sibling love

 On the L and loving it!

 Visiting with Sarah and sweet (super tiny!) Baby Charlotte

 Everything is AWESOME!

 

After spending time in the city, we headed up to Lake Geneva for the rest of our vacation. This trips was especially fun as both my sisters were in town for a visit. We also had a family reunion with all of the O'Conners, which is always really fun. You may notice that Dan isn't in these pictures. He did make it back to LG for a few days but unfortunately had to work for most of our trip. But getting to have everyone together even for a little bit was heaven! 

 

All in, another wonderful trip back to what will always in my heart be home. Thanks again to Mom and Dad for putting up with us for all that time! I know it's tough to have us underfoot and we really appreciate all that you do! XOXO

This is only happening because, really, how could I not capture this on film?

 Only in Wisconsin, my friends...

Hanging out at Chuck's (yes, we spend a lot of time here...)

Fun with friends Miles and Marlowe