We're Back!

It's been months since I have last posted. As a parent of three, the days seem to get shorter and my to-do list even longer. But, the blog is going to be a new priority for me. So, I just threw some snacks at the kids and have the small ATV inside so hopefully it buys me 10 minutes. Let's see how many laps they do before someone screams or wants something. ha ha

Okay, after downloading pictures on to the computer, it was not as long as I hoped -- it's the next day! So kids are still in bed, I am crossing my fingers I can finish.

In April Andy decided to leave Turner Construction and work for Microsoft in their Finance Department. With his construction experience and MBA, he helps with data center construction for the company. Andy enjoys working there, learning lots, and has already had a trip to Iowa (I know, you are all jealous). Because he had a two week window between jobs, we decided to go to Belgium and Holland as a family and visit my sister. Ruth lives near Amsterdam with her husband and three adorable kids. What an experience from the get-go! It was over a 15 hour flight and Ava didn't enjoy it very well. Neither did the other passengers on the plane having to listen to her scream. In Belgium, customs even let us cut in line because of her screaming. At that point we were wondering what we have done! There was no turning back now. Right when we got to the rental car, she fell asleep ... finally, peace!

We drove to Brugge, which was stunning. There, we enjoyed a variety of chocolate, a horse-buggy tour, and the most amazing ice cream and french fries. (Yes, we are on a good start with our diet ... we are on vacation!) Then we headed to my sister's, who lives near Amsterdam. For a week we stayed with her and took day trips to several places. Stunning countrysides and quiet towns all around. Amsterdam was a fun city to see by boat and bus. I don't recommend driving in the city though. There is a reason why everyone rides their bikes. Edam was one of my favorite cities because it was so quiet and picturesque. Giethoorn is "the Venice of the Netherlands". No streets in this town. We rented a boat and traveled in an out of the canals. Appenhaul was a fun monkey zoo where the kids got to see monkeys running around and on the stroller! And we went to Keukenhoff and saw fields of flowers and landscaped gardens, even a

parade! We also woke early to get to the Holland Flower Auction. Most amazing sight to see -- thousands of flowers being sold and distributed around the world! We wished we could have stayed longer in Europe and miss my sister and her family. Annika bonded so well with her cousin, Ashley. Actually, all the kids did really well together. Good thing we see each other again in California next month! After our good-byes, we went to Antwerp and saw a castle and church and then over to Belgium to take our flight back home.

All three kids did WONDERFULLY on the way back home -- thanks to being exhausted, 2 ipads, and new toys. The kids took a whole week to adjust to the 9 hour time difference. Many nights they woke up at 12: 30 a.m. and 2 p.m. -- wide awake! No fun for Andy and I. We are still enjoying cheese and chocolates that we brought back and the kids love marching in their clogs. Holland was a trip we will never forget! Below are some pictures of our experience there:

Us in front of the Tulip fields. Ava needs a nap. : )

Brugge, Belgium -- Our very first sight seeing spot of the trip. We ate french fries on the steps of the statue and kids ran around after a long flight and drive.

At Appenhaul, there were over 120 of these monkeys running around! You are given zipper bags to store all of your belongings because the monkeys love to get into your stuff. One monkey found a mento in the bottom of Ruth's stroller. Don't know how long it took the zoo keeper to catch the monkey. Pretty funny!

We bought masks at the Monkey Zoo. Can you guess who is who?

Traveling the canals in Giethoorn. I would love to have a house here and just read!Don't worry, the depth of water is under 3 feet so no need for a lifejacket. It was fun to cruise around for a couple hours.

In front of the Amsterdam sign. Can you spot Andy with the kids?

At Zaans Schans. The only cold day on our trip. The rest of the time was beautiful and sunny!

These are the shoes we brought home! : )

In Edam at the cheese market square.

Keukenhoff. Beautiful landscaped gardens. I could have stayed all day if it weren't for the thousands of other tourists who decided to go the same day.

Kids with their cousins from oldest to youngest. I think Ava wasn't too impressed with Uncle Ben's goofiness. : ) She was ready for bed!