Catching Up - Part Two

So here we are, home again after my very long vacation - partly planned and partly not-so-much.  Can I just say that I love the versatility of the Weekender Bag?  It's big enough to hold my computer (in its protective sleeve), my camera (in its case), my book, the contents of my purse, my hexie kit, and who knows what all.  My only complaint is that the end pockets aren't big enough - at least when the bag is stuffed full) to hold my water bottle, so if I make myself another Weekender someday, I may pleat or gather the pocket to give it room to do that.  But that said, this is an awesome travel bag.  Thanks, Kristy!

When I arrived, our first stop was at Ikea.  I had never been to Ikea before, so this was a treat.  It was fun to see what everyone had been talking about.  Good thing there's not an Ikea close-by...  it would be way too tempting.  (And wouldn't it be fun to make a cute pillow like this?)

My DSIL had asked me last October to come in July and watch the kids while he and my daughter went on a work-cation.  I was only too happy to accommodate them.  It was super fun to spend some time with these little people I get to see so seldom.  They have such funny little personalities, and it was a real joy.  Britton's new favorite thing is to drop things behind the couch to see where they go...

He's such a cutie.  And has such a fun personality.  Grandma had a blast.

And it was fun to see my son play the part of bachelor uncle.  What a guy!

The day the parents left required a trip to the dollar store for color books, crayons, and some awesome balloons.  Britton loved the truck balloon.

Abby's balloon was, of course, a princess crown. 

She's a cutie! 

It's really fun to watch them play together.  Always in motion.

Of course we made a trip to McD's for breakfast to play in the Play Place.

And Mommy and Daddy left them a present or two...

Which was super fun...

And Grandma and Abby made a button necklace - a game my grandma taught me when I was about 3...  She loved it.  And when I had to cut the thread to use some of the buttons for a dress I made her, there were no complaints about re-stringing them.  What a fun activity!  It kept her busy for hours, and we had some wonderful conversations about the ones we liked, and the colors, and shapes.  Well worth $3 (with a coupon) at JoAnn's for the big button assortment. 

And even though I was once again reminded of why people have children when they are young, I had a blast!  It was so fun to get to see the kids one-on-one for more than just a day or two.  Can't wait to do it again!