Chicago Chronicles: Cardinal Nation

I think that's what they call it. I'm sure David will correct me if I'm wrong. We had a great visit to Uncle Jeff & Aunt Marion's new home. We got to see everyone including Blake & Karla, Matthew, Uncle Jon & Aunt Angie (read her version of the visit and see more pics here), Gracie & Lexi, Aunt Sue & Uncle Monte, Josh & Ashley, Timothy & Little Tim--and even Nana who happened to be there for a work conference. We made our new traditional trip to Ted Drew's, had lunch at Fitz's one day (I am a big root beer lover), went to Matthew's Won by One concert, and even visited Grant's Farm with Uncle Jeff, Aunt Marion and Nana. We also were able to see our friends the Diggs for the first time in several years and have a quick lunch (disaster for the kids--sorry Elizabeth!) with the McPherson's. Ella was able to enjoy playtime with her cousins spanning the ages of 3 to 27 and become so sleep deprived she voluntarily took naps and ended up getting sick (me too). It was great fun showing off our beautiful baby boy Nicholas to all of our family who had not met him yet and our friends too! Ella loved running around barefoot and said her favorite part of St. Louis was gardening with Aunt Marion. Nicholas screamed everytime we were in the car since he's not used to being in a carseat, but got a little better by the end of the trip. We were also able to see alot of our friends on Sunday when at McKnight Road church--alot of whom read this blog! Our train travel on Amtrak was great on the way down and a comedy of errors on the way home with one delay after another. It was so great to see all of you and we hope to come back soon. In the meantime enjoy our photos--and sorry for the photo overload--just too many good pictures. --And come see us in Chicago!