Cousin Time

We were so fortunate that Ryan's sister was able to bring her kids out to Oklahoma this month.  The kids hadn't seen each other in 18 months, so it was kind of like meeting each other for the first time.  We had a busy, but fun time together.  They were also able to be here through a lot of Clayton's arthritis hoopla, and that helped me tremendously with the little boys.  Aaron was a little cautious around Ryan's sister the first day or two, but by the end of their stay he was actually reaching out for his aunt to hold him.  I think he earned some brownie points for that.

While they were here, we had several fun outings and spent a lot of time just hanging out at home, letting the kids play.  I wish it hadn't been so hot, but we still managed to have a little outdoor fun.  I have a million pictures to share, so if you're not into pictures, you can stop reading now.  I tried to narrow it down.

We spent a lot of time in the backyard.  Water was always involved.  The hose was the most popular toy.  Sometimes a spray was welcomed, and sometimes it wasn't.



We went to the science museum.

These two were the only ones brave enough to pose with Otto.

We went to the splashpad.

 Aaron is my most enthusiatic splashpadder.  He sat at this little fountain for a good half hour.



We went bowling.



And just spent some time being cousins.

There was also a short trip to the zoo, lunch at Chick-fil-A, more ice cream than should be consumed by small children, and sno cones, of course.  Time with family is a rare treat for us, and we had such a great time.  Clayton remembers his cousins and aunt, but they were just pictures for Eli until this trip.  Now he knows them and is talking about them nonstop.  We really, really appreciate them making the trip out here, and I especially appreciated all the company/babysitting/cooking/cleaning help.  Love you guys.  We miss you already.