Back to the Homeland

While Allen was in Iowa just a few weeks ago (dropping off his Dad for the month), the rest of us hadn't been back since Thanksgiving. Our departure was delayed since Owen was participating in the D.C. Summer Law Institute, which meant we didn't arrive until after the corn-easting contest was complete (congratulations Truman) and Allen wasn't able to defend his title. However, while Noa and I decided after the 14-hour drive to just crash at Grandma and Grandpa Z's, Allen and Owen decided to play catch-up and get in some quality corn-eating, s'mores and family bonding.

We made up for lost time. The next day we all got in some swimming and some Fawcett birthday time before Thomas's family had to depart. Fortunately, Leanna and her crew were still around and willing to join us for Barbie (though they demurred the double feature of Oppenheimer). While we missed Corn Fest, we were able to make all of Hoover Fest, including the luncheon at the library (with Steve and Olivia) and catching Grace (with the West Branch Marching Band) and Grandpa Z (with the National Park) in the parade (though sadly, Grandpa was out of candy by the time he got to us).

We celebrated Mom and Dad's anniversary at our favorite Iowa City eatery (aside from Main Street Sweets), the Iowa River Power Company. It was a little bittersweet, since they just announced they were losing their lease and are closing in November. The next day, Allen and the kids had a lovely day at the pond while Grandpa and Grandma Z and I went to Marshalltown to see Pete, Jeannine and Bernie. Somewhere in there, Grandpa Z secured his record as the oldest high diver at the pond, we all helped with harvesting some sweet corn, we finished (minus one missing piece) the puzzle that Allen and Owen had gifted Noa and I from their Whistler trip, and Owen even got some driving in.  Which was helpful for the long drive back before we headed off to the beach...

(To see all of the Iowa pictures, click here.)