New Years in Iowa

Both Graecyn and Eric had 2 full weeks off from school for winter break, so I took advantage and also took the week of Christmas and New Years off from work.  It was so nice!  Usually, we hop in the car after lunch on Christmas day to start our travels to Iowa or North Carolina.  This year, we weren't rushed for time with our vacation schedules and decided to wait a few days after Christmas before starting our travels to Iowa.  It was the first time in years we were able to stay home Christmas day and it was glorious!  The kids got to have a jammie day and play with their new toys; Eric and I relaxed all day and took our time cleaning up the Christmas day mess.  For dinner, we had a yummy prime rib with twice baked potato casserole.  Graecyn commented several times throughout the day and the days after how nice it was to be able to be home with her new toys.

A few days after Christmas we started our drive to Iowa.  The kids traveled really well.  Graecyn was happy to have the iPad and watch her movies and play her games.  Cody was happy to watch his movies on the DVD player and play with his trucks.  We made it to Moline, IL the first day which made for an easier second day.

In Iowa we had lots of cousin playtime.  It's so fun watching the kids bond with their cousins.  They only get to see each other a few times a year, but they quickly warm up to each other and have a blast!  We swam at the YMCA, celebrated Christmas, decorated a gingerbread house, and got to watch Addison at a basketball scrimmage.  The kids spent a lot of time playing in the wash bay where Grandma and Papa have just about every ride on toy!  Since it was a few days before Graecyn's birthday, we also got to celebrate her birthday with her cousins.  We had a great time and the week always goes by way too fast!