4th of July in Nebraska

We had a great time in Nebraska over the 4th of July. We hadn't made the trip home since November, so it was time! :) The trip was a bit trying to start with...

We got a much later start than we wanted to -- it was about 6:00 PM when we left town, which of course means... TRAFFIC. We didn't get far when Kevin said "I have to potty", so we pulled over on the side of the road to allow him to "pee on a rock". It would have worked out just fine, but unfortunately he didn't want to pee on just one rock and managed to cover his shoes and my leg as well! :) Once we got that taken care of and got back on the road, Samuel puked all over himself & his car seat. We pulled into a gas station in Joplin to attempt to clean up Sam and just as I got him undressed and clean, he puked again. But this time ALL over ME! :) Needless to say, I had to go inside and change clothes! Eventually we got back on the road and headed North with very few issues once the boys fell asleep. It was a long trip (I think it was nearly 4AM by the time we arrived!).

The good times were more than enough to make up for the car ride -- which is always the case! We got to go to one of Lexi's softball games which was especially fun since we are never around to attend anything she does (such a bummer to miss out on all the dance recitals, basketball games, school programs, etc.). Not to mention that it was a perfect place for Kevin to run around, play & get dirty -- although he did want to go out on the field with Lexi! :)

Lexi playing 3rd base

Lexi getting a base hit

Kevin & Ethyn cheering Lexi on

We also got to spend time with Troy's kids, Hannah & Austin too! They are both growing up so much! Hard to believe that Austin is a teenager! :) Kevin absolutely loved playing with them! Between Lexi, Austin & Hannah, there was always someone to entertain Kevin!

Austin feeding Sam ( I think Sam managed to puke on everyone but Hannah!)

Hannah & Kevin at the ball park

We did get to see my dad's family for a little bit while I was there. It was great to get together as many of them aren't home when we are back and many hadn't met Brian or my kids. Somehow it gets hard to stay in touch, but it was so good to see & hug people. Even if it was for a short time!

Aunt Nancy (my dad's oldest sister) with Sam

My grandma (Sam's great grandma)

Probably one of the best parts of the trip was when Brian & I helped the kids (Austin, Hannah & Lexi) shoot off fireworks on the 4th. They had such a blast, about caught several things on fire, and occasionally threw them in the wrong direction; but all in all everyone survived with all their parts! :) It reminded me of times when I was younger and getting to shoot off fireworks was such a thrill! Brian was happy we did it with the kids. Definitely a memory-making experience!!