Thanksgiving

I know this is early (as Thanksgiving is just under a week away) but as I've been incredibly late on all posts, I decided to switch things up and feel good about being on top of things for just this once! No, really, mostly I just wanted to express how truly grateful I am. While not wanting to get all sappy on you I can't let this holiday get by without sharing how utterly happy, lucky and thankful I am. Yes, these two crazy faces have much to do with it, along with their just as crazy face dad does! But, it's even more than that. That's what gets me, that with them it doesn't seem fair to have more. But, somehow, I do. I have incredible people all around me - always. I'm surrounded by positive energy and support - always. I know this sounds exaggerated, but really truly and honestly its not. I LOVE my husband Jon. I LOVE my two kids Ava and Zac. I LOVE my mom. I LOVE my dad. I LOVE my sisters. I LOVE my brothers. I LOVE my best friend, Stephanie. I LOVE my nieces. I LOVE my nephews. I LOVE my in-laws. I LOVE my cousins. I LOVE my aunts and uncles. I LOVE my friends and neighbors. What's more, is I feel they all love me too. So this is what I am so grateful for, cause what could really be more?

Chicago

We stayed two fun filled nights in Chicago over the summer! Ava wants to stay five nights next time. The girl (and Zac) loves staying in hotels and swimming. We hit the aquarium, the Children's Museum at Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and two trips to the Disney store and so much more! Ava just had to get every Princess & Prince Barbie Doll and, well, Daddy couldn't say no.

We went up the John Hancock Building earlier this summer. Can't wait to go back and see all the Christmas decorations very soon!

Little Dragons Black Belt

She did it! Earned her Little Dragons Black Belt in August!

Milwaukee County Zoo

They're showing off their airbrush tattoo's thanks to Daddy coming along on this outing! Also, have to show off "Alex" the lion & "Marty" the zebra, or at least that's what my kids named them (from Madagascar). Our next this to the zoo we saw three new baby lions too! Pictures are a little fuzzy, but possibly will be included in a future post. On a previous trip we stopped in on the train display, that captivated Zac.

Camel ride

She rode the Camel! After several attempts over the past two years, Ava rode a camel! She has wanted, insisted, to do this for two years now. For two years now, I've taken her, bought the ticket, stood in line only to have her freak out into a panic when she was to mount the camel. What's even more shocking is she rode him all by herself! All other attempts, I would have rode with her. This time, she was ready and went it alone! So glad we were able to mark this victory! Zac rode too, but mom went with him!

And a few photos from Fox River Park.

Warmer Days

With a fun filled summer, I have so many photos to share. These are two from the beginning. Ava is sporting her Spiderman snorkeling gear (which she received for her birthday from BFF, Jason) and Zac in one of Daddy's favorite Baseball T's. Yes, Ava wore the goggles around the house much of the summer and even outside while playing with friends outback. It is a look!