our summer vacation

joel, lauren and i just got home after an almost two week vacation. we drove from minnesota to washington state. we were a little concerned about how lauren would do in the car considering it's an 1800 mile trip. but she was absolutely awesome, which made the trip all that more fun.

we weren't even out of minnesota before joel wanted to stop to take some sunset photos. so lauren got out of the car and ran around while her daddy got some really beautiful shots.

our first overnight stop was in kalispell, montana. we stayed with one of my closest friends, geoffrey. i got to meet her mom (who is so nice and hospitable) and her little nephew and niece (they are both very cute). lauren was happy to have kids to play with. we had a great time and were treated to tons of good food and meals. thanks again for everything!!

after kalispell we drove to joel's parents house in washington. lauren loved being at grandma and grandpa's house and spending time with them. it was a very relaxing visit. we did go to the zoo one afternoon. lauren was most happy just running around though and thought the animals were just okay. but we all had lots of fun.

grandma and grandpa's

the zoo

after saying goodbye to joel's family, we spent a few nights with some good friends, jessica, andrew and liam. it was great spending time with them and seeing their recently purchased house. liam who is 2, is really sweet and played nicely with lauren. it was a great way to conclude our time in washington.

so after a fun filled trip, we are home now. (it's so nice being in your own bed after a long trip). and after a few days of unpacking bags and grocery runs, our lives are back to normal. but we have precious memories of our wonderful west coast trip and the time we spent with our family and friends.

we miss you all!