Iowa 2010

The day after Christmas we flew to Iowa to visit the Olson side of the family. We hadn't been back since September 2009, so it was a long over due visit to see many people. This was Grace's first plane ride. Needless to say I was stressing over how she would do. We got all checked in pretty quick and got through security and headed to the gate, but first we stopped to get a snack. I had the bright idea to get TCBY frozen yogurt...big mistake. Grace of course wanted some which was fine, but then she kept stealing the spoon and yelling mine - her new favorite word. She chowed down and was a giant mess when we were done...good thing I packed tons of wipes!

We made it through the flight with only one meltdown that lasted about ten minutes and then Grace slept the rest of the way to Iowa.

Grace was beyond spoiled by her Nana, Papa Charlie, Grandma Barb, Grandpa Steve, her great-grandparents and her Aunt Rachel and Uncle Bob. She got lots more practice opening gifts and seemed to start to get the hang of it.

Showing her cousin Aidan what she got.

Grace also got lots of play time with her cousins. Here she is with her cousin Aubrey.

Showing off her face after trying Grandma Barb's fudge - she loved it!

Checking out cousin Ellie.

Playing with Aunt Rachel and her cousin Aidan.

We had a great time visiting everyone in Iowa and had a fun time. We headed home and on the flight home Grace did great. The plane was pretty empty so Grace got to hang out in her own seat for a bit. She was a happy clam as she ate a banana and her weight in chex mix. The landing in Denver was a bit rough as while we were in Iowa, Grace was diagnosed with a double ear infection so I am sure her ears were bothering her.

Overall Grace was a great traveler. While it was nice to go out for a visit it has been nice being home and getting back to our normal routine. Grace seems to crave routine and today while she was mad I left her at daycare, I could tell this afternoon she recovered quickly and was happy to be back with her friends.

Here's hoping we get to have many more family trips in the future.