The Boehmes: 80 Years

Last week Brett and mommy had the joy of traveling with Grandma and Papa Brown to visit the whole Johnson family (Grandma's side) in Minnesota, to celebrate Great-Grandma Ethel Johnson's 80th birthday. It was Brett's first much-anticipated visit with the Johnson clan, and we had a blast. Uncle JR (the brother I never had) hosted us at his sweet bachelor pad. Surprise surprise, Brett absolutely fell in love with all the farm animals, as well as the trophy game that JR had mounted on the walls! He was constantly asking to pet and kiss the puppies, kitties, bears, deer, and even the fish! Goofy kid.

We managed to snag a free seat for Brett on half of our flights...not bad! MUCH better than holding the squirmer in my lap for hours on end!

Goofing around at Uncle JR's house

Brett was really proud of himself for finding the only dandylion in JR's yard. He loves trying to blow them.

Papa Jack and lil' JackJack

Oh yeah, Brett got to ride a bull!

It was also super fun to see all the great-grandkids interact and play together. Brett is the fourth of six great-greats, and he's lucky enough to have a cousin, Ethan, who is just six weeks younger. He also really enjoyed playing with Sammy, who is about to turn three. The newest addition, Olivia, made us all drool over her cute, pudgy little face and cupid's-bow lips. Oh, and a big shout-out to Catherine, who bravely hosted all of us, and all our rambunctious kiddos, for a taco feed at her gorgeous farm house! The woman has no fear - she fed both Otter Pops and ice cream cones to each and every one of the kids, hauled out playdoh, bubbles, coloring books...the works! I wonder how long it took to clean up after us all!

Blowing bubbles at JJ and Catherine's - from left to right - Wakely (age 6), Brett (20 months), Ethan (19 months), Sam (almost three)

Indulging in an ice cream cone, while Jennifer (age 3) scarfs an Otter Pop

Brett and Sammy both showed up in matching hats to Grandma's party!

I just can't decide which of these I like best...adorable kid with a gorgeous background (JJ's yard)

The newest little munchkin: Sammy's baby sister, Olivia

Most of all, we had so much fun wishing Great-Grandma a Happy 80th Birthday. It was fun watching her unwrap our gift - an original, framed pencil/charcoal drawing of one of her favorite photos - her beloved late brother, Marvin. Brett's gift to Great-Grandma was singing and dancing to both "Old McDonald Had a Farm" and "If You're Happy and You Know It." He also played the piano (with help) and sang the ABC's. Little performer... ;)