The weekend before Christmas, we took Ivie on her first road trip. We went to the “windy city” (Chicago) so Ivie could see her cousin Natalia. They are just shy of one year apart (2 1/2 years old & 1 1/2 years old.) Oddly enough, my sister got pregnant, shortly after I had Ivie, and she had the same due date as I had had! But while Ivie was 2 days late, my sister had her daughter two weeks early! No fair! (Also not fair… Ivie was nearly 9 lbs, while Natalia was just over 6lbs)

Ivie was thrilled to see her cousin. She loves playing “big sister” reminding Natalia to “listen to your mommy,” even though she could work on that herself!

One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the Shedd Aquarium. They have sharks, whales, all kinds of fish… it was really neat. Here are some pics:

My hubbie, Nick, with our niece and Ivie

Looking at the first exhibit

Ivie looking into aquarium; Natalia taking a break

Ivie & Daddy hanging out with an Octopus

Natalie & Mommy

My sis and her daughter; Natalia's had it with pictures!