Cousins first, friends for life!

My sister and her three kids came down to California for a fun visit last August, while Brant was traveling in Europe for a conference (tough life, I know).  It was a fun filled couple of days that included some school days, park visits, swimming, a trip to the kids' museum, and even an extra night of fun when their flight was cancelled!  Our townhouse was filled to the brim with laughter, toys, sibling mischief and family love.  We had a blast!

We celebrated Ellie and Ben's birthdays -- but most importantly, we celebrated being reunited!

A little trip to the air field while Maddie was in school, with these beauties!

And these cuties!

We went through Old Town La Verne, and scored some sweet donuts!

Joy really was having a good time - she just didn't want to be held by her big sis!

And, because there's always time for more sweets, we made sure to get frozen yogurt that evening.  The kids (and adults) didn't mind!

After school on our last full day together, we drove to Pasadena to spend a couple of hours at Kidspace Museum, which was a big hit for all!

There are holes and tunnels to climb through all over the place.

And giant platforms that climb three stories high

Working on a painting masterpiece!

The four big kids loved the trike roadway and would have spent hours there, if we had let them!

What better way to end a hot day out at the museum than by getting wet (from head to toe) in the stream?

On Saturday, we had half a day together, before the crew was set to board a plane, so naturally we spent it poolside!

Swimming and In-N-Out ---> perfect way to conclude our time together!

We cleaned up and drove out to the airport for a teary goodbye.  The cousins were all terribly sad to be parting ways, and as I was driving home, consoling my heartbroken kids, the phone rang.  My sister was on the line, explaining that their flight had been cancelled until the next morning, and asking if we could turn around for one last night together. :)  Well, the cheering that took place in my car was deafening, as we turned the car and headed back to the airport!

Just kidding!  We're back for 1 more night!

The entire trip was a blast and we had so much fun hosting our family - especially with the extra bonus time!!