Dubuque

David and I were fortunate enough to have Grandma and Grandpa come watch the kids while we went on an overnight stay in Dubuque.  It was a late Father's Day gift for David.  I found a Bed and Breakfast, something we've never done before, and decided to surprise him.  It was a fun little trip!  We were able to fits quite a few things into a short amount of time.  We definitely need to make sure to do this more often.

The Bed and Breakfast was in an old house in the heart of downtown.  We were up on the 2nd floor, and it was hot.  The air didn't work very well.  But it was quaint little room.

 The next morning we hit the town.  We went first on the little Elevator that goes up the side of the hill in town. 

Our view from the top.

Then we went to the Botanical Gardens.  We didn't spend too much time there, it was such a hot day, but we enjoyed walking around a little bit.

Then we went back to Dubuque and tried a sandwich shop for lunch, then a local ice cream place for desert.

While we were gone, the kids were having fun with Grandpa and Grandma.  They went to the John Deere Pavilion for their annual kid's day and out to lunch at McDonald's.

Apparently our kids like ice cream.

4th of July

For the 4th of July, we hit the parade and fireworks in the evening.  It was a fun day as a family.

Maquoketa Caves

We've been wanting to go hike the Maquoketa caves sine we've lived here in Davenport.  We heard such awesome things about it, so we finally went on the 4th of July weekend.  We had so much fun.  We borrowed a backpack to carry Brayden in, and for the most part he did pretty well.  He got down to walk occasionally.  We really enjoyed spending the day as a family and hiking in the outdoors.

Pierced Ears

Molly got her ears pierced!  I actually can't believe it ever happened.  I've been telling her for a while now that if she wanted, she could get it done, but she has a thing about pain, so she's been very adamant that she didn't want to do it.  Then, we went to visit Grandma.  We were at the mall, letting the kids play at the play area, and we mentioned it to Molly...she cried.  We figured, let's just go look and see what they have available, we don't have to get it done if you don't want.  When we checked it out, I just let Grandma talk her into it.  It's amazing what Grandma can convince her to do that I can't.  She did great, and loves having earings in.

Becca's visit

We love when Becca and her boys come to visit us.  This trip we hung out and vegged, went to the Family Museum, out to eat, and Becca and I went to see Pitch Perfect two.  It's so fun seeing our little guys play together.

Last day of 2nd Grade

Molly finished out her 2nd grade with a bang.  She had a difficult year adjusting to a new school again, but she made it through, and did a great job academically.  We are so proud of her. 

Volleyball

Molly played volleyball this spring.  She was fortunate to have Daddy as her coach.  It was a new sport for her, and she caught on quick and really enjoyed it.  David was a little nervous about coaching, but he did a great job.