Dinner with Wichita friends

So, our trip to Kansas City for John V's wedding (one of Nick's buddy's from college), some fun shopping, and staying the night with the Sommer's was great (even though we missed Gabrielle since she stayed in Wichita with Grandma Martin).  

We stayed in Wichita the next week so that Nick could attend some meetings at the Koch building.  And, we got together with some old "Focus" friends.  Thanks to the Schaefer's for opening their home for us to enjoy a meal and some fellowship.

No basements in Texas means that Gabrielle has had VERY limited experience with stairs.  So, when she took off down their stairs by herself, I was a little apprehensive.  But, we let her do it by herself without freaking out too bad, and got some great pictures of it in the process.  I was surprised that she didn't need to hold the wall/railing or anything.  

Way to go, Gabi!

Almost to the bottom...looks like Ellen was there waiting for her.

Enjoying some game time with the boys...yeah!

Keith and Andrew bowling with the Wii.

I got some baby time in with the newest addition to the Schaefer family...little William was quite alert, but then fell asleep in my arms soon after that.  How precious!

Nick got some time with William too...unfortunately we both got spit-up on, but I think Nick was upset that it directly hit the Jayhawk on his shirt.  Come on, Joel, teach your son to get some respect for KU--just teasing!  

Andrew and Grace spent a little time reading together...

Ellen getting tired...I think that bunny is bigger than she is!

Jonathan hanging out...he so badly wanted to go downstairs with the "big kids" while they were playing.  He was "stuck" upstairs with the "boring" mommies were enjoying some wonderful conversation together.

At one point we didn't know where Gabrielle had gone.  She must have gotten more comfortable with the stairs and snuck down to their playroom.  This is where I found her...it's almost like a "Where's Waldo" picture.  She was having so much fun with all the new-to-her toys!