Time in Ohio

Well, I downloaded my pictures from Ohio and realized that I only randomly took out my camera, and even then the pictures don't tell 1/2 the story...

So I'll try and fill in some gaps.

First of all, thank you to all who sent cards, e-mails, flowers and prayed for our family.

Did you know you can send these?!

They're called Edible Arrangements and they're just wonderful! We also appreciated all the lovely flowers and plants from our friends and family. We truly felt your love and comfort during our time of loss.

We had some wonderful times at my Mom's house, spending time with my Mom and siblings. We went through a lot of stuff that has accumulated over the years, and shared many stories, laughs and tears. The boys had a great time spending time with their cousins who they haven't seen since last August. It was a special time for us all.

We were overwhelmed by the effort of our friends that came to see us while we were in Ohio. My dear friend Suzanne flew up with her 3 children from Florida and came to the funeral. Then her husband Micah joined her and the kids and we spent the weekend together catching up with all of them.

This is their sweet, sweet little boy. This was our first time to see him, and it was special to get to hold him and get to know him a little. I have no pictures of their girls and our boys playing together...but they had fun seeing their friends as well. Thanks for making the trip up, it was great to see you guys and connect again. I know how hard flying alone with 3 is and I appreciate it more than words can express!

Beth and Carole also drove out from IL to spend a couple days with us. The boys loved seeing 'Grandma Klaus' and I think she enjoyed loving on them as well!

Some precious moments with Piper.

Beth and her girls. The boys had a great time playing with the girls. They were so happy to spend a couple days with their Tremont friends. Thanks for making the trip, we know exactly how long and boring it can be!

Eric and Karmen (Kevin's sister) happened to be in Ohio at the same time for some conferences for Eric's work. So we took the opportunity to take some extended family pictures with Kevin's family. I didn't interfere and take any while the photographer was doing her work (great job, Michelle!), but I did catch a few when we were through.

Grandma and the boys.

Ryan and their boy in Grumpy (Arlin's truck).

We spent a lot of time riding 4 wheelers at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Our oldest got a chance to 'drive' with an adult helper behind ;) Thanks, Uncle Ryan.

The boys loved playing with their cousins!!

For some reason, although we played and played with Eric and Karmen's little girl, this is the only picture I took of her!

Somehow she managed to participate in the chaos that is bath time at Grandma's in the big whirlpool tub!

Since she was born a day after we moved to France, this was our first time to see our adorable little niece. It was fun to hold her and watch her play and interact with our boys. She was very entertained by all of their attention and noise! I'm so glad it worked out that we were all in Ohio together. Precious memories of playing with their sweet little cousin.

And finally, what's a better way to finish off our trip to the US than to celebrate the 4th of July?! We went to Ryan and Hannah's for dinner and fireworks... but first we did some sparklers in the back yard. The boys had a blast!

I'm not sure who's more excited here, Arlin or CJ?!

Although our trip was not planned and it was a sad occasion, we did enjoy seeing many many friends and family both at the calling hours and funeral and afterwards.

Thanks to everyone for making the effort to be there for us and for your many thoughts and prayers.

We love you and miss you!