European Vacation

No, not like the Griswold's vacation although we did have some mishaps, but what's a family vacation without some trials? This August Stephen, Emma & I went to visit Uncle Dave and Aunt Kris and kids with Grandma & Grandpa Cassat. Greg was "vacationing" in Washington and couldn't make it. For 3 fun-filled weeks we traveled around Northern England and spent some days in France. Through all the planes, trains and automobiles, the kids were troopers. I couldn't have asked for better traveling companions. We did experience some minor injuries, fevers and exhaustion but endured to the end. Our beautiful hosts did a fantastic job playing travel guides, hotel and drivers as we explored some of the most beautiful countryside in England. My favorite was a small town known for the birthplace of the Magna Carta, Bury St. Edmunds. It's beautiful combining old world (roman ruins) and the modern - shopping malls and eateries.

I snuck away with my in-laws to visit London for a few days. We saw "Wicked", took bus and river tours of the city and enjoyed sitting in Westmister Abbey for Evensong. Thanks Don & Jeanne for letting me tag along!

We spent 6 amazing days in France visiting Mickey Mouse and gang at EuroDisney. Did you know that Mickey speaks French? How about Buzz Lightyear? Oui! Moving 11 people around was a challenge all in itself so one day in Paris was plenty. We saw the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, fed birds at Notre Dame, walked and walked & then finally found a bus to the Eiffel Tower. The view from the top was worth the walking and then we enjoyed icecream afterwards. We ate at a sidewalk cafe and enjoyed crepes for dessert. Very french!

At the end of it all, Stephen and Emma's favorite memories will be playing with their cousins. At any given time I would see one or both out playing on the trampoline or slaying imaginary dragons with their swords.

Thanks and love to the Dave Cassat family for being wonderful hosts! We love you!