The Land of Oz
As it now seems to be an annual tradition, we traveled to Kansas during the week surrounding Memorial Day to visit my side of the family. I managed to get some of the highlights of that visit posted here, but have been pretty slow to get the rest of it documented. So, I figured I’d better get that done before the next major summer holiday gets here tomorrow. 
One of the best things about our visits to Kansas is the “free range” philosophy we’re able to adopt with Ava. My parents have a huge backyard full of trees, birds, squirrels, grass, and any number of bugs…all of which serve as endless entertainment for our curious girl. Add to that a couple of very willing grandparents and a friendly uncle to ooh and ahh at her exploits and the things she finds to look at and Whoozy just ends up in heaven.
Ava & Rowdy checking out the toads from the window well.
After our trip to the zoo and to the farm for Memorial Day, we spent the rest of the week mostly hanging out at home or in McPherson. That’s not to say that the days weren’t busy, though.
We went swimming at the new city water park in McPherson…
…and swimming in a more casual location closer to home.
We tested the limits of playground fun…
…and then were wise enough to know when it was time for a rest.
We explored our creativity with art…
…and unique clothing choices.
And, when it was time to just find a spot to relax, it was really easy to just find a buddy to snuggle up to and have a chat or a snack.
Just to be sure we filled every minute, before we took off for the airport, we managed to cram in a little more adventuring with some kite flying in the park across the street.
All in all, we had a wonderful trip. Thanks so much to my parents to playing host for a week and for keeping us so entertained. Looking forward to our next visit!