Here, There, Everywhere---4th of July Tour

We decided to hit the open road to celebrate Independence Day! I don't think anyone was looking forward to the 7+ hour drive (especially Russ since he had just gotten off work) but I had the Suburban loaded up and ready to go so away we went. Our first stop was North Jersey to visit with the Berks. We had a BLAST! The Berks are such wonderful hosts and the kids got along great! Lexie was in heaven playing with the boys! We went to a local park, took a train ride, played on the playground, and headed back to the Berks for a 3rd of July celebration! What a FUN FUN F U N time!!!

Jake took Lexie's hand to help her to the train! It was sooooo cute!


Lexie and Jake are ready to ride!!!
An attempt at a group shot...the conductor cut out Ash! :(
Tyler trying to explain to Lexie there was going to be a tunnel, but not to be scared---I love these boys!
Jake waving good bye to all the on lookers as the train left the station/
Olivia rushing to get in line

Lexie couldn't wait to take her turn! She ran right up to this lucky Zebra!
Jake picked a horse right next to Lexie
Tyler...or "Ti-yer" as Lexie pronounces it, picked a horse too
Lexie was loving the ride!
Jake, Lexie, and Tyler posing for the camera! What cuties!

I didn't realize Ashley was even taking a picture...Olivia and I both look as though we were deep in thought.


The next stop on our 'tour' was Long Island for a 4th of July visit with the Raymars! But first it was a quick detour to visit with Brent at Panther Lake. The girls swam their little hearts out and were ready for a nap! On our way out of town, we passed by Daddy's old house...



I think Lexie was fast asleep before we even made it to Russ' childhood home...they were TIRED!!! The girls managed to sleep most of the way to LI which made the drive a very quiet one.
Crossing the G W Bridge on our way to Long Island

The girls were out C O L D!!!


Once we arrived, Lexie and Olivia were ready to play with baby Sami! What a miracle and beautiful little girl! Sami was born at 25 weeks (a little over 3 months early)...unfortunately, we won't be back to celebrate her first birthday, so we took advantage of our visit and celebrated with her a bit early! The girls laughed and played until bedtime...then the adults enjoyed an amazing dinner and the NYC fireworks (via NBC!) The next morning, Mel and Brandon took us to their beach club. It was so much fun and there was EVERYTHING you could want and more! Kiddie pools on the beach...perfect weather...a nice cool breeze...sun...fun and great friends! Thanks again for all the hospitality!



Olivia took a dip in the beach side pool!
Lexie was busy building her sand castle.
She was on a mission!

The view from the cabana at the beach club. Thanks again Brandon and Mel for a great visit!
Lexie was having a great time at the beach club! She loved the sand, the sun, the surf...and the company!
Baby Sami on the beach--such a happy little girl!

The final leg of the trip (minus the journey home of course) led us to south Jersey. We were able to spend some time with Uncle Walt, Great Grandma Jones, and Grandma Barbara. Lexie and Olivia even showed off their swimming skills!! Thankfully the pool was near by as it was hot Hot HOT (to the tune of 103 by the afternoon)!!!

Russ and Lexie heading in the pool for a swim!
Olivia posing on the deck of the pool...such a little cutie!
After a quick visit, we loaded up and headed back home! We had a great time on our journey...but it was sooooo nice to be home! It was a loooong trip...a fun one--but there truly is 'no place like home'!

This is how much time we spent in the car....

...and we put a few clicks on the odometer!