St. Louis Visit

We are back home, safe and sound. We had a wonderful trip, although we didn't get to spend nearly enough time with everyone. I am so glad we were able to see as many of you as we did! It certainly wasn't a relaxing vacation, but it was productive...and we did have a bit of fun, as Kendra clearly demonstrates.

We were able to get a tremendous amount of work done at dad's new place. There is still a ton more to do, but we did what we could and I think it helped. Dan built a retaining wall and re-routed some of the rain drainage away from the house. I redid the landscaping in the front with various bushes that will need little to no maintenance (per dad's request) and will hopefully look great once they fill out. Dan got the computer and TV working, and I digitized the insurance paperwork to make it all searchable. Searching through 300 pages to match the lamp he just bought to the line item for a lamp on the insurance document was...painfully tedious to say the least.

Dad's new furniture is beautiful, and the house is shaping up nicely. He has a guest room and two sleeper sofas if anyone wants to visit...

Of course the star of the show was Kendra - she learned to walk!! By the end of the trip she was toddling around dad's place like a champ! His house is much more baby-proofed than ours - he has less stuff! There's no stopping that kid now! She is walking everywhere, and gains confidence (and stamina!) each day.

The three of us also made a day trip to Springfield to visit Marilyn. It was so good to see her. She was still in the hospital, but looked great. Weak and tired, but walking around. She even kept Kendra entertained as we ate dinner. She was released to go home last Thursday. However, I talked to my uncle tonight, and she's been re-admitted. I think she's just getting lazy - likes being waited on :)

Kendra and I also made a quick day-trip to Springfield, IL to visit with my bestest friends. We had lunch then wandered through a mall and let the kids play in the play area before heading home. Annie bought Kendra an adorable Build-a-Bear stuffed bunny, complete with a voice box that says "I love you, Kendra!" Kendra breaks out into a smile every time she hears it. It is so cute to see.

Here are a few pics from our trip...