a quick weekend in Iowa

We headed to Iowa to visit our favorite Cedar Rapid-ians for the weekend.  We even let the kiddos ditch school on Friday so we could soak up an extra day with family. It went too fast. Think date night for my bday with fancy drinks and too much food, the kids getting spoiled, hot tubin' at Bibi and Babu's house, and cousin time.  We also explored some more of Cedar Rapids with our expert tour guides.

right as I snapped this shot Evy screamed "Mama, my butt itches!!" Bless it.

NewBo market is one of our favorite spots with local and handmade goodies at WAY better prices than Chicago!! The girls got necklaces for $1 and apple cider donuts! Holla!

I was so excited for my curly willow branches for only 1$ each!  Jason's response, "you bought sticks?" Boys just don't get it.

yarn bombing is my favorite.



damage from the flood stands side by side new buildings

J took me out for a fabulous dinner to celebrate my birthday and Bibi & Babu held it down at home with all 3 kids so we could enjoy Happy Hour, dinner, AND shopping at Target without kids which is pretty much amazing! I'm a lucky girl.


Babu's Ipad is Evy's favorite indulgent treat in Iowa. It is a magnet for all the kids.

Anni is such a lil' Mama!

And Auntie Jorie got her baby fix

cousin chaos is always sweet, sweet time

and Annikah pretty much thinks that Joel and Silas's electronic scooters are the BEST!

Even J dawg had to admit they are pretty awesome.

 It is nice to always be welcomed and cared for so well.  There is always a place for us in Iowa and we so appreciate time with family that only requires a road trip and not continent traversing plane rides. We are spoiled for sure.