We enjoyed our 2nd (annual) Swinger Cousin Swap June 22-26. This was the only chunk of time all summer that we could coordinate both of our schedules to make it happen. It was Greta's turn to go to Kansas and Clara's turn to come to Iowa. We had a week filled with special activities while making sweet memories. We enjoyed treats and stayed up late. I have fond memories with my cousins growing up and I pray my kids do too.
First things first, Clara and Hudson enjoyed lunch on the deck.
Clara loves art, just like Hudson does, so we did a hot air balloon paper mache project. It ended up being a bit more work than I bargained for, but they turned out well, making it worth it.
Hudson has done a few paper mache projects through the years, but this is the first one I've assisted with.
We made a stop at the library. They had some STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) stations and they folded an origami crane.
Tuesday night was games and popcorn with candy night.
The #1 thing Clara wanted to do was bake and decorate a cake. She picked out a pineapple cake pan at the library and things got messy (and silly) with the decorating.
McDonalds at the park sounds just about right.
Peek-a-boo Swingers
I took Hudson and Clara to the Clive Aquatic Center and of course...they had a blast!
Clara wasn't so sure about the water slides at first, but she warmed up, gave them a try and then couldn't quit.
We made a trip out to Papa and Nana's house. These hungry swimmers gobbled up the spaghetti.
We brought along our pineapple cake to share. We made it with a cake mix and it tasted better than some of the recent homemade ones I've made.
Getting some hugs from Nana to bring back to Kansas.
We made a stop to stand in the corn (that Hudson helped Papa Ed plant) before heading back home.
Clara was a great helper with Ivy and they became instant buddies.
After letting them dry for 48 hours, it was time to paint the hot air balloons.
We got out the water table and slip 'n slide for some afternoon splashing.
I just adore that wet face. I am soaking up every ounce of her baby sweetness.
So thankful for these two, they get along so well and make great buddies.
We took a bike ride to the park and stopped for a rest.
Roy made Clara homemade biscuits and gravy (which she said was her favorite) and the next day Hudson made her his favorite breakfast, poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes).
Showing off their finished paper mache projects. They are talented artists.
On the last night Roy took them to Dairy Queen and let them get whatever they wanted.
Meanwhile Greta was having a blast in Kansas with Ellsy and Maryn (plus Aunt Jenna of course). They went swimming every day.
The hungry swimmers ate plenty of cheese pizza.
Bedtime stories with Uncle Ben.
More sweet swimming smiles...
Sugary treats during a pool break
They took in a softball game to cheer on Ellsy's team.
These cuties finished off their week with more time at the pool.
After we swapped our kids back to the correct mini van and headed for home Hudson and Greta were already talking about Cousin Swap next year, when Hudson gets to go to Kansas and Ellsy gets to come to Iowa. They can't wait!
