Two is a Game Changer

I have no clue what I was thinking... Staying home with two kids is awesome, but it certainly isn't what I expected.  Exhaustion is an every day thing, but all of you moms already know that.  I'm not looking for pity here, I promise.  Somehow, between all of the crazy times (usually filled with puke, pee, and swim lessons), I managed to snap a few photos.  Here's what we've been up to the last few months.

Fall Fun

Chicago during Thanksgiving Break

The First Big Snow of the Season

Meet Baby Boy Kruse

On the morning of September 26, we met Evan Kruse.  I can't explain how your love multiplies or grows exponentially instantly, but it just does.  He has brought so much of it to our entire family, and he doesn't even know it... YET.  These first few weeks with Evan have made me love Liv more and in ways that I didn't think were possible.  Meet Evan...

Summer Fun 2016

I feel like I need a vacation from summer vacation.  I know, I know...those spoiled teachers, right?  Well, this summer has been the busiest by far.  I'm not complaining; it has been a blast and filled with many fun events, memories, and lots of laughter.  Here are some of our summer adventures.

Williamsburg and Jamestown

We originally chose this location because Elissa teaches about Colonial America.  While the historical aspects are enough of a reason to visit this unique area, we found that there is lots more to do.  We had loads of fun at the resort, where we realized that Liv has Elissa's dare-devil personality (well, what's left of it).  Liv was also obsessed with Pocahontas at Jamestown.  Tony was excited because we saw a woodpecker going to town on an old tree.  You could hear it long before seeing it.

Cincinnati

We actually stayed in a nice hotel right across the river from Cincinnati, which worked out great.  The view of Cincinnati was beautiful, and it as just a minute drive to get there.  For those of you who live in the Midwest (or anywhere), Cincinnati is a hidden gem!  Seriously, why don't we hear about this place more as favorite cities to visit?!  There was so much to do, it was really family or singles friendly, and it was easy to get around the city.  The baseball stadium was gorgeous too!  

Alivia ate more than I've ever seen her eat at the game, and the Cardinals won!  Woo hoo.  Yes, they were the out-of-town team, but that's who we rooted for.  Liv had a blast at the aquarium, where she got to touch starfish and sharks!  We all loved playing games and cashing in for prizes at GameWorks.

Lake Geneva

The weather was iffy, but it ended up being great.  We got in more swimming and pool play, ate lots of ice cream, and got to actually relax!  We will be back!

White Sox Game- Dad's 60th Birthday Celebration

Happy birthday, Dad!  We had a group of 30 people collectively party, eat, drink, sweat, and watch the White Sox game to celebrate my dad's 60th birthday.  

Zoo Nights

We went to Zoo Nights on two different occasions.  Alivia is really starting to like to talk and ask questions about the animals and the entertainment that goes on.

Just Plain Fun

From swimming to moving to a new bedroom to getting her first library card to going to the movies to Plainfield Fest, Alivia has had quite summer.  With a few more weeks left, we will make the most of it!