The beginning of catching up...Trip to Chicago...

align="center">I've uploaded our pictures in reverse order in which we experienced them. So here are the highlights: CHEESECAKE FACTORY!! (the boys were tired of waiting..) align="center"> Waiting on the guys to come pick up the girls...



Winterwonderfest at Navy Pier...Lots of wintery decorations!

The Fam

Me and my babies


Watching the ice skaters


Spending time w/ cousin Gracie was a big highlight!
Movie time! Watching the Nativity is now a yearly tradition! Such a good reminder!


The guys chatting...

Krista whipping up something yummy!

Samuel and Gus...

Auntie Meg and Gracie--just up from a nap...

Snacking...we had to stop by Trader Joe's--I love that place! It was Justin's 1st time. I stocked up on goat cheese, T.J's Sourdough Bread and healthy snacks. Yum!

Shedd Aquarium:




Daddy and William touching a starfish!


We all look a little pale...except George.

Getting ready to watch the new show:Fantasea! It was really good!


Becoming friends w/ Gus. Madeline and William were deathly afraid of Gus. I'm attributing their phobia to my Grandparent's nasty cat. That has been their main contact w/ small animals. Thankfully by the end of our visit, William was comfortable w/ Gus and enjoyed petting him. Madeline would work up the courage to pet Gus, then would run to one of us as soon as she was done. >