Enjoying Harvest Season/Family in Iowa

My brother's 40th birthday was October 20th and we were heading back for the weekend to celebrate. Madison had a basketball game on the Thursday evening before and we decided to just pack up and head out afterwards for the 6 1/4 hour trip to my mom's house.

It was well worth driving late that night. We didn't roll into mom's driveway until 2:15 Friday morning, but we were able to lounge and take our time the next morning. The kids had a blast playing outside at the farm! They had so much fun finding things to do outside and they got to hang out with cousin Max who we don't see much.

Madison, Max and Noah showing their love for the Hawkeyes!

We then showered up and headed into the Carroll Health Center to visit my dad for a couple hours. He wasn't in his room when we got there and found him watching the entertainment for the day there: polka! Yes, you heard me. We listened to polka with him and enjoyed root beer floats. And the bonus was that he was in a good mood so it was really fun talking with him.

The kids taking a quick picture with Grandpa Hinners

After having dinner with my mom, we went over to Kurt & Jackie's house to hang out. The kids had a blast playing with each other and it was great having a few drinks and visiting.

Noah, Madison & Lexi being silly! Love your jersey Lexi!

Emma, Summer and Mason were up to no good :)

Saturday morning we headed into Lizzy's for all of us to get haircuts. When we finished up, the kids went outside to play for awhile.

Madison and Aubrey

I caught Madison loving up Rodney's horse, Doll, all weekend. I think we all fell in love with Doll! She's a beautiful horse!

Rodney and the guys made it over to mom's farm place with the combine, tractors and wagons later Saturday afternoon and the kids finally got their rides in the combine! They especially enjoyed getting in the wagon of corn to play in :)

Once we all had fun playing around in the field, we headed in so Sean and I could get ready to hit Rodney's 40th birthday party! It was at Jessie & Mike's bar (Route 30 Roadhouse) so we left a little early so we could grill our own steaks there before the party came into full swing. Then we got to enjoy Brad Morgan play music for us the rest of the evening. It was great catching up with everyone. I'm positive we all had a good time!

Above is myself with all my siblings! Always love getting to see them!

The next morning we took our time eating breakfast and packing things up and then started heading back to Illinois around 11. We got a quick picture of mom with the kids before leaving.

We were all pretty tired by the time we got back, but it was so worth it after getting to be around family all weekend! Love you guys!!!