Oh Iowa, Oh Iowa...

Noteworthy observations and events from the Iowa Trip:

- Norah was an angel on the flights to and from Iowa. As in no crying. At all. We read books, used the iPod Touch flash card application, colored, and slept. Norah did throw a book at a lady sitting next to us on one flight. But to be honest, I can't really blame her.

- Arby's is still delicious. Now if only we could have Arby's in NH.

- Norah quickly warmed up to her Grandma (my ma) and was quite slow in warming up to Grandma (my pops). Grandma and Norah read quite a few books one morning, allowing me to get in a nice long shower. And a few times Norah eagerly gave Grandma goodnight hugs. How precious!

- Without the internet and cable TV I played a crap ton of Bejeweled on the iPod Touch. I also was able to read quite a bit (I'm currently reading "The Red Tent" - SO GOOD).

- Norah LOVES blocks. My dad made a large set of blocks for me when I was growing up. Having Norah play with those same blocks was SO special.

- Grandma Kole (MK's mom, also know as Momma T) and Great Grandma Mabon (MK's grandma) came down for a visit. Most memorable moment: After observing the way Norah's pants were falling off her bum, Grandma Kole stated, "She looks JUST LIKE Marshall!". HAHA! I guess you had to be there...

- Norah was able to see her Great Grandma Wiley (my gma) not once, but TWICE! I love my grandma like crazy...she is one of the best people I know. For the second visit Great Aunt M came down too and gave Norah some wonderful (SANTA-FREE) Christmas books. THANK YOU AUNT M!!!

- Nothing beats my Ma's tater-tot casserole. YUM! Well, maybe Arby's.

- I did not have Dairy Queen. Much sadness.

- I got to see my Iowa bestie, Amy. She made me a pendant with Norah's name on it. Love you bugaboo.

- Norah and I bonded, but we definitely missed our Papa Bear (as I'm pretty sure he missed us too).

- Norah was reunited with her sock monkey once we got to the car at the Boston airport. I'm not sure I've seen her THAT excited in a while. Norah and Monkey talked and giggled almost the whole hour drive home.

Love and miss you all.

Will post pictures soon of our trip!