Charlotte

Last week we went to visit my brother's family in Charlotte. We had a great time. Jared had never been to their current home and we haven't gotten to see them much over the years (looking forward to more of that!)

Wednesday we took our time driving down and "shopping" then spent the evening with them.

Thursday the moms and kids went to the park in the morning while Ben worked and Jared had a phone interview. Then we hung out at home and in the evening had dinner at Chris and Melody's house! Melody is one of my dearest friends from years ago and it's so great to see her again!

Friday we went to a spray park. There were a billion people there (which Emily had never seen before) and kids kept coming by the busload. Ellie had fun. Kylie had fun but didn't get too wet and I was constantly terrified of her being trampled (lots of kids running top speeds not paying any attention). Jackson had fun but didn't get super wet. Jaden did not. He FINALLY got the courage to go in there and got totally knocked down by some kid immediately. So he pouted a bit. Finally he said " I wanted to go to the other one and its like, time for lunch" Shortly after we went right around the corner to a really cool playground. The kids had a great time then we all relaxed at home while the kids napped and Ben fixed yummy ribs for dinner. Saturday we were able to get free tickets to the Raptor Center (a rescue place for birds essentially) . The kids thought that was great and got up close to many birds. There was a small ant problem, but thankfully, Emily and I were the only ones that got bitten. :) And we had to play it cool really well because Jackson was analyzing us. One false move and our morning would have been over. They loved it though.

That night it was off to church and seeing where Ben works. I had been there before but I don't think Jared had. It was fun. Reminds me a little of CTK.

Left after breakfast on Sunday and took our time. We spent a long time at IKEA (where the kids got free kids meals!) and wished we could buy alot ;) Made some stops on the way home and didn't get there till dinner time. We are all tired.

We had a great time and Ben, Emily, and Eliie were great hosts! Emily is a wonderful cook and I think we ate them out of house and home!

The kids were all so cute together. Our kids loved everyone which was good and even the two girls were starting to grin at each other and interact a bit towards the end. Kylie even gave Uncle Ben a hug before we left which was very good progress!

Here are some pictures...