Iowa or Bust

Shortly after our trip to the beach, we re-packed the car and headed to Iowa.  Since we would be there during Shae's birthday, the boys and I prepared before we left:

Look who signed his own name:

We packed lots of toys and books for the drive:

and made lots of pit stops

but it was a LONG drive!

But definitely worth it to see our family.  Grandma Susie gave lots of hugs:

And our cousins had warm weather and a pool ready for us!

Cousin Amy even shared her bed with Teddy (and he HOGS the bed!)

They had a great time playing.  It seems like only yesterday we were dressing these two up and posing them for pictures in this blue chair:

We headed to Iowa City so Shae and Grandpa Steve could take Teddy to his first Hawkeye game.  I'm not sure who was most excited!

Despite the heat, Teddy got to play some ball before the game:

 Go Hawks!

 OK..so it was miserable hot.  But nothing a little shade and popcorn can't fix:

 and frozen lemonade!

In case you're wondering...this is what Leo did during the game:

That night Travis and Jaquelyn came to hang out with us.  Jacquelyn was kind enough to put Leo to sleep. 

We had fun the next day in Iowa City before heading back to Burlington.  Teddy found this piano and played us some songs:

We were sure to get lots of river time during our trip too! 

Who knew there were beaches in Iowa?? (Not me!)

Leo did awesome in his life jacket!

Fun times!

We also were fortunate enough to stay at Hotel Stuecker the rest of the week.  

It comes complete with outdoor dining:

and  indoor dining for when the mosquitos come out:

and there is even a Leo-sized bath tub!

More grandparent time:

Shae and Teddy also went "fishing" (or for a "fast boat ride")

 Weeeee!

 And of course we ate at Big Muddy's!

Both boys fell asleep on the way back from lunch.... it was a five minute ride.

Leo got a battle wound too... he fell on a toy and busted his chin. 

After a week of traveling, playing on the beach, and swimming in the river... I guess it was bath time.  Hope we didn't leave too dark of a ring around your pretty tub Aunt Steph!

Clean cousins!

We also celebrated Shae's birthday on our trip!  Thankfully Aunt Steph gave us some millennium bars to start the day off with.

We celebrated our Super-Dad!

We visited with the Colemans before Shae's birthday dinner.

Happy Joe's!

Teddy had a blast!

It's not a party until there are cakepops!

Teddy got lots of prizes with all of his tickets.

Snuggles for Jacquelyn.

We met family for breakfast before heading out of town:

After a long day in the car, we stopped at a hotel.  Best thing about our room.... this mirror:

Night swimming!

Shae got up with Leo and took an early morning walk:

 Is that baby swinging in his PJ's?

We were near Aunt Sammie's around lunch time (she was out of town).  We decided to get off the highway and eat at Schotzsky's.  Even though it was a bit off the highway, we were sick of eating out and it sounded good.  Here we are in front of it....

hmmmm this turkey tastes like chicken!

Next stop: the outlet mall:

Shew...we made it home safe and sound.  We had a great time with everyone, but it is nice to be home!