We are family

We had a great long visit with our nieces a few weeks ago, and a short but sweet visit with our sister-in-law ... doesn't happen near enough! Erik's brother, Pat, was in London covering the Olympics - he's kind of a big deal. :)

Their trip was mostly full of shenanigans - chase / coloring / eating / dolls / general mischief. Ellen LOVES spending time with her cousins and was so sad to see them go. 

This little one got in on the action this year and tolerated the big girls tickling and pawing all over her. 

At the start of their trip, we all made an excursion to the UniverSoul Circus at Swope Park ... a "cultural experience" to say the least, but great (loud) fun. I think the girls really enjoyed themselves and Ellen is still talking about it, so we'll call that a success. All of the kids staged a circus of their own on the girls' last night here ...

I say Big Top, you say Circus ...

Circus "yoga"

 And, not to be outdone, this cute little one added her own plank ...

Great way to end our summer with a bang!