We have been looking forward to summer for a long time, and not just for the good weather it brings. Our summer is jam-packed with visits from (and to) far away loved ones. This past weekend was the kickoff, as Grandma and Liam came up for a family wedding. We had so much fun, I could write a book! But I'll try to contain myself and just indulge you with the highlights.
They arrived by car on Friday afternoon, and Max picked up right where he left off with Uncle Liam. It was as if they hadn't even been separated for a few days, much less several months. After a few rounds of hugs, we caught up on life over Chinese takeout, our ever-present standby for dinner with visitors. After dinner, we introduced Grandma and Liam to the hiking trail near our house. Paul was glad to finally have another soul who was brave enough to hike the steep passes with him... and (to my chagrin) they even convinced Max to join them!
Friday night we stayed up chatting WAY too late, but even though I woke up with Lucian at 6am feeling like I needed a coffee IV, it was 100% worth it. Paul made super-awesome omelets (breakfast is that man's speciality, let me tell you) and then we packed up and piled into the car for our overnight trip to Sauk Centre for the wedding. All six of us managed to squeeze into the Buick: Liam between two carseats in the back, myself between Paul and Grandma on the front bench seat. I would describe it as ... cozy? Oh but it was worth it to only take one car!
The wedding was beautiful, and the reception was a blast! Max fell head-over-heels in love with the bride, and at the dance he tried repeatedly to grab her dress to gain her attention. Poor gal. But it wasn't just the bride he was after; he danced with just about every bridesmaid and every little girl who would give him the time of day!
Believe it or not, even Lucian joined in on the dancing. He's got the moves, that kid. But while Max would have danced the night away, Lucian was ready for bed a little after 9, so we went back to the hotel. To bed, you ask? Ha! Liam, Paul and Max put their swimsuits on and hit the pool until after 10:00... why waste time sleeping when we have only a precious few days together?
Sunday morning, we went to Mass and got to witness a group of children recieving their first Communion. So special! Then after Mass we met the relatives for a very nice Mothers Day brunch at the historic Palmer Hotel. We drove back home for a quick rest before heading to Grandma and Grandpa R's house for Uncle Ben's birthday! Liam and my dad got to renew their long-standing thumb-war battle, and the rest of us got to sit around enjoying each others' company. Oh, and the food was delicious, of course.
Monday morning we had breakfast at my coffee shop (yes, I'm declaring ownership. Try and stop me.) and then waved off Grandma and Liam with wishes for a safe drive home. Thankfully this goodbye was easier than most, because we'll be seeing them again at the end of the month!
So good to see you, Maureen and Liam! Max and Louie miss you already.
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