Detroit. Rock. City.

For the Fourth of July, we invited ourselves to visited the wonderful Wenzels, whom we have dearly missed. It was a long journey...especially for Mommy, sitting in the third row...but also for Daddy, the best-tempered (and most efficient) driver imaginable. 

It turns out that Cordelia really, really likes carousels. Here's the amazing one by the Detroit waterfront -- where the kids marveled at being able to see Canada just across the river!

On the Fourth, we went to the amazing, amazing, AMAZING Greenfield Village. Where we hope to go every time we visit. Here's Cody on the village green, taking batting practice with an old-fashioned bat and ball, and a gentleman fascinatingly dressed in old-timey garb.

He got a couple hits!

Then: an old-fashioned carousel! Yay!


We rode an awesome, working steam train all around. It was the highlight of a day full of highlights for Cordelia. (Video to come)



The night of the Fourth, the kids did sparklers for the first time! I mostly hid inside, convinced any moment I'd hear screams and see Cora's hair on fire.





The next day, we went to an awesome sprayground, that had these fire hose thingies the kids LOVED...




Emma liked sightseeing and all, but mostly, she was content to practice trying to sit up and crawl on Grandma Robbie's rug. And flirt with Grandpa Tom, of course. 

Despite the kids not being on their most charming behavior, and learning that "Go to your room, please" can in fact extend to guest rooms in other people's houses, we had a great time. And when the kids went to bed, the grown-ups played Euchre (we are totes midwesterners now!) and drank wine and ate amazing grilled goodies. And possibly some of the kids' fudge. And before we left for the great trek home, Cody reminded GR of their tradition -- out came the protein powder and vitamix, so he could make an amazing smoothie, and then not drink it. But man, can he work a vitamix! : )

We love and miss you, GT and GR! Thank you for a wonderful time! We can't wait to see you again. If you're willing to see US again. 

Cue Gob Bluth: "Does anyone have a forget-me-now?"

: )