New Mantle

We finally got a chance to attach the mantle that Grandpa Smith got us. It was the perfect size for our fireplace.

Shenandoah Hike

We took a hike with Amber in the Shenandoah's this past week. Amber got some good walking in and fell asleep on the way back.

Our Cutie Pie

Going Back Home

The last morning in WI G'ma Maureen let Amber explore her tupperware cupboard. You can see Amber really enjoyed that! Then it was one more bath in the turkey roaster and off to the airport, flying back to VA on Daddy's lap.

Special Family Moments

A delicious Italian meal made by G'ma, enjoyed on the back patio.

The guys enjoyed many rounds of Sheepshead and some Settlers.

Amber crawls "normally" for the first time with G'ma Maureen (while we were at State Fair)!

Last Day in WI

On our last full day in WI the guys watched Amber and did some work around the house, including cleaning the computer and getting instructions (from Lucas) on how to install the new RAM when it arrives. Us girls had lunch with Great G'ma and then got pampered by Mom/G'ma Maureen who gave us pedicures! I'd say that was a fair deal. smiles.

Luncheon with Great G'ma Sally

On that last full day in WI we gals were treated by Great G'ma Sally to a fancy luncheon in Wauwatosa. It was delish! And such a nice time to catch up with G'ma. Amber visited with Great G'ma before lunch, but
then the guys were on "baby duty" while we girls luncheoned. :-)

State Fair Fun

Pictures of our afternoon at the Fair. We watched a pig racing show and a BMX biking show, tried on weird hats, learned that WI produces over 1/2 of the world's cranberries, drank cranberry juice, ate corn on the cob, ate brats, ate baked potatoes, ate the famous cream puffs, ate chocolate chip cookie dough dipped in chocolate on a stick, ...did I mention we ate?... Then Brian and Sara were brave enough to do the Ejection Seat together. I think all of Milwaukee heard them scream!

WI State Fair

Before we knew it, it was State Fair week, so... G'ma and G'pa watched Amber while us siblings ventured into town for the opening day of State Fair. We had a lot of fun together amidst all the crowds.

In the Neighborhood

G'ma Maureen's good friend and neighbor Mary Lou stopped over to see Amber. Amber liked playing Patty-Cake with her. Then G'pa Paul took Amber for her first bike rides around the neighborhood. That was a fun new experience for Little 'Ber.

Moments with Great G'pa and Great G'ma Larsen

Amber enjoyed some peaceful time indoors playing with Great G'pa and Great G'ma Larsen.

More Country Fun

Swimming, archery, cookout, bonfires,... We all got spoiled! Joanie and Dennis even rented a golf cart for the day so that everyone would be able to get about their property and go up and down the country road. Well, Great G'pa Larsen started off-roading with it, and then there was no stopping that Lucas and Uncle Brian. Those two went wild and even managed to pull 180s in that cart! At the end of the day all were safe and sound. :-)

Afternoon at the Beach

We went to Freemont, WI and rented a 3-person Wave Runner and enjoyed the beach. It was a fun day for Amber, and especially for the guys (Lucas, Uncle Brian, and G'pa Paul) on the Wave Runner. We girls enjoyed the Wave Runner too! Even the pregnant Mom got a ride on it going 50mph!!

Fun in the Sun

Amber really seemed to enjoy the country life up at Joanie and Dennis' place.

Larsen Family Gathering

The next day it was off to Great Aunt Joanie's and Great Uncle Dennis' for a couple days of fun on the farm and at the lake with the Larsen family. Amber really liked the dogs Lucy and Ginger. She would squeal anytime she saw them! They were so patient and gentle with her.

Great G'ma Sally and Family

Much of the Leonard extended family (G'ma Maureen's side), including Great G'ma Sally, got together and celebrated more July birthdays: Sean, Katherine, Auntie Renee, and Amber. Amber got bath toys from Great G'ma Sally and her first doll from Great Aunt Cheryl.