Graham and Josh were able to get into a Chicago Cubs game…and loved every single minute of it, although they hated to miss American Girl Place.

But the highlight of Chicago was our time with my sweet friend, Deb. She went with the missions team this past May to Uganda….so she already knew Dw, Emma, Graham and Josh….

Deb and I have become friends since the trip and have spent time texting and talking on the phone – and I just thought it was time we played – in person! When I knew we might be heading her way, I asked her if we might crash at her home?? She was willing {just goes to show how crazy she is!}…

This bloggy world is the best!! Friends brought together over common hearts….just one more blessing!!

Deb is a single mommy to Seth {a sweet treasure} and she is in the process of adopting another treasure she met on the Uganda trip!! Betty! How amazing is that? {Warning: If you are not interested in falling in love with anyone and bringing them home, our trips just might not be for you!}

I loved my time with her and she was so incredibly hospitable to us…I told her…”No matter how well-behaved 8 kids are…we still land with a thud!” Loved Deb, Seth, her home and our time….such a blessing and I can’t wait till we can play again!!!! We laughed, talked and talked some more….her home is beautiful and her back porch is still screamin my name!!

Yesterday Graham was riding up front with me. He turned to me and said, “This trip has been really, really fun!” Sure made my heart smile. Yes, the destination is wonderful, but the journey should be equally as wonderful. And it was. We sang, laughed, talked and talked some more. Love those kiddos of mine. They’re the best.

We hauled oats and made the 10 hour trip from Chicago to Dw’s childhood home in just about 13 hours. I catheterized all the kids and we hooked up the tubes to a bucket in the middle of the seats. When it filled, we just poured it out. Had to pour it out four times. Amazing how good it work. Might even market it.

Okay, before anyone gets all up in arms, of course, I am kidding.

That’s why it took just 4 extra hours. I mean it sincerely, there are perks to diapers. =)

Anyway, Mr. Whitey was very happy to see us. He did sing, and we will have to see if Graham can upload it to YouTube so you all can see his musical talent. He had the words in his hand written on a notebook paper. My guess is that it was something you guys suggested.

Playing at Deb’s home….

Just as it was getting dark…the sign that brought leaps of joy to my heart and tears to my eyes….

Oh yeah baby…the place I was born and lived for the first 31 years of my life….

More to follow….

Off to the drive-in movies…