reno

Last Saturday we drove to Reno to visit Chris' aunt Noonie and Deb. We had last visited them a few years prior and had just as good of a trip this time around. They live in the most beautiful setting and we took lots of fun outings with plenty of down time in between.

Last time we were up, we bought each of the kids a Lego set for the trip. We found this to be an excellent activity (occupying lots of time!) for them during down times at the house.

The kids and I got to spend a lot of time together, just the three of us. Noonie and Deb are fellow golf fans, so while they golfed, we found fun things to do. On Sunday morning we went to a trampoline park. The kids LOVED the climbing wall.

That afternoon, some of their friends opened up their home to us and let the kids swim. This picture doesn't do their view justice. So beautiful.

Each night, we ate dinner outside on their patio. Their home is situated in a wooded area and a highlight for all of us were our nights relaxing and talking during dinner and into the night. The first night they had planned some S'mores roasting at their fire pit.

The next day was lake day. Instead of going to Tahoe, we went to Donner lake. It was less crowded and the water was warmer. We rented a couple of paddle boards (which I loved...I could do that every day) and picnicked. 

That night we went out to dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. The kids were exhausted, but the promise of getting their own piece of cheesecake made them beyond eager to go. :)

The next day was the 4th of July. During the morning, we took a walk down a creek a couple blocks from their house.

The country club they belong to held a barbecue, complete with water activities for the kids. Cameron liked going in the dunk tank. :)

Here is Chris helping Cameron during a putting contest.

Kendall, teaching Deb how to play Spot-it.

We had such a wonderful visit and felt so spoiled. It's quite nice having family live in such an idyllic setting, in addition to being so willing to host all four of us. :)

After four nights, we drove back down to Chris' parents. It was super hot, so the kids didn't play outside very much. They did take a turn on the swing. I snuck out and caught this syrupy sweet picture before they knew I was there. :)

They got in a couple, very rambunctious games of Yahoo (Aggravation).

Debbie treated us to pedicures. This was Kendall's first ever. She was quite a fan. :)

I've said before that saying we eat well up there is an understatement. Here we are at one of our many yummy meals (Tri-tip, baked potato casserole, potato salad, corn on the cob, squash, homemade rolls, fruit salad).

I also got in four Hallmark movies!! Some of my favorite times during our visits are after the kids go to bed. Chris and Wayne watch baseball in another room and Debbie and I watch movies in the living room. Pair this with homemade ice cream and cake...and you have some VERY relaxing evenings. :)

While it is nice to be home, we all agree that the past week held some pretty amazing memories. :)