Last Adventures

We have been so busy getting ready for our move that my little blog has been neglected. This is my 4th "big move," but the first time where I'm not thinking that I would seriously like to move back at some point. Does that mean I didn't love being here? No, I am so happy that we were here. I got so much out of being here - we traveled all over the East Coast, explored most of what DC has to offer, experienced some beautiful fall leaves/weather, met some wonderful people, had three children here, and Dave had an awesome work situation. I am well aware of how good I had it here. I do, however, feel that I have gotten out of this place what I am going to get and am ready to move onto the next chapter. Even though I feel ready to go, this move is very sad for me.

We had a few last adventures that I wanted to share some pictures of. First, Dave and I went to Maine which was AMAZING. What a special place with so much charm.

We also had a nice last Fourth of July which a day trip to Fort McHenry and a night time Capital fireworks show watched from the Pentagon.

Hershey and Gettysburg

We had a fun weekend staying with friends and going to Hershey Park, Chocolate World, and Gettysburg.

First up was Chocolate World which had a cute little ride through a pretend chocolate factory. Dave REALLY wanted to take one of the Hershey classes that gives you a "Masters in Chocolate Tasting." He was very proud of his degree.

The park was a nice amusement park. It was 90 degrees, but the kids did amazing. This makes me super excited for Disneyland :).

Best picture!

 

On the way home, we made a two hour stop over at Gettysburg. What a great thing to do!! 

 

Space A Trip #2

My parent came for the last few weeks to watch our kids so Dave and I could do another Space A (like free stand by for military flights) trip to Europe. We flew into Italy where our friends Tim & Carly and Peter & Riann are stationed. It's so nice to see people in your life who don't live near you :).
Pictures from Italy:

Marostica

Very cool Olive Oil Mill/Store

Wine Tasting

We hopped a short flight to Barcelone for some Mediterranean sunshine (and a little rain too). Honestly, we were not as impressed with Spain as most of the European countries we have seen. We still had a great time relaxing at the beach, seeing the sights, and eating at a tapas bar.

beach view from our hotel room

relaxing at the pool

and on the beach

Christopher Columbus Momument

La Ramble - street of shops

We went to Sagrada Familia which I thought would be way too modern for my tastes. It's such a modern cathedral that it is still under construction! I ended up loving it and think it was just as magnificent as any church we have been to (and I've been to most of the big ones).

Sagrada Familia

"famous" Gaudi lizard

Our friends Tim and Carly recommended a a short trip to Slovenia. While that is off the beaten path, it was an amazing fairy tale type of trip.

Lake Bled

rented a row boat to see the small island

the island with a little church

ring the bell three times and make a wish :)

Lake Bohinj

The Circus

This past weekend we went to the circus. I feel like it's cheating to just post pictures without some writing to go with it, but all I can think to say is that we had a blast and here are some pictures :) 

Cherry Blossoms

We are finally get some nice weather. Since the sun came out, the Cherry Blossoms that surrond the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial are in full bloom. We took a quick trip after Dave got home from work one day.

Picnic dinner

 

Strong winds started up and blossoms were flying every where

Happy Easter

I hope you had a lovely Easter! Ours was simple but wonderful :).

Easter Baskets

Jack

"Hi"

Our first time in the front row at church went well :)

I LOVE this picture of Tim

Chris

Kate

best attempt at all four

sweet moment

Egg hunt