"Fun with Family and new Friends"

My cousin Lauren is in town for a few days visiting from Kansas City.  We only saw each other briefly over Christmas..., maybe just a few hours.  She and her hubby came over last night after all the kids were in bed and we had the best time!  It was so good to just have uninterrupted time with them where none of us had to play the role of "parent" for a few hours.  To say that I miss her is a huge understatement.  I could write for days, months, and years about all of our memories.  When I think about my childhood, Lauren is in almost every memory along with my own sister.  I am so happy that we had such great quality time last night together, and then she was sweet enough to invite me to a playgroup with some of her friends today downtown.  We had a fabulous time splashing in the fountains, having a picnic, seeing the train and riverboat, and dancing on the stage at the ampitheater.  It is amazing to look at our own children now together. It takes me right back to my own childhood watching them.  "Family ties" are truly some of the strongest in the world - and my relationship with my sweet cousin is so strong, nothing can break it. 

Definitely "all boy".   He is trying to climb up a pole for crying out loud! 

Sweet, sweet smile 

"Woo Woo"!  Was so glad the train came so close to us - although none of us realized just how loud the whistle was going to be!  The kids loved the train until the whistle blew. 

Even saw the riverboat out for a cruise 

My cousin's precious little one - Will or "Wilmon" as his sister affectionally refers to him! 

Elijah Brooks and Bennett having alittle chat together.  

So excited to go "splash"