When we told Abby we were going to visit Aunt Karen and Uncle Lance in Omaha she asked, "do we have to get on the highway?" Poor kid. We were all feeling a little worn out but getting to see Karen and her family was worth every mile. We met for dinner at Upstream Brewing Company and then the following morning went to the zoo. It was cold and rainy but fortunately this zoo has a lot of indoor exhibits.
Like here in the Desert Dome.
And in the Cat Complex. Well hello, handsome.
Abby really enjoyed the aquarium, as well.
Abby and Phoebe had a fun time watching the penguins together. Both girls love animals and they became fast friends.
Creepy but oddly beautiful.
I think we could spend an entire week at this zoo, but since it was such a cold and yucky day we were all ready to head home. I requested that we swing by the Butterfly Pavilion on our way out.
Back at Karen and Lance's we met up with our niece, Alley, who we haven't seen for years. She's graduating from high school next month and heading to the University of Nebraska-Omaha in the fall. It was good to catch up with her! Phoebe's twin sister Zoe wasn't feeling well so Lance had to take her to the doctor. I'm disappointed I didn't get any pictures of her with Abby.
We also got to meet Alley's boyfriend, Alex. They're one adorable couple.
So that sums up our 21 hour whirlwind trip to Omaha. I wish we could have stayed longer. I also wish we could see Karen and Lance more often and be more supportive of their family. Both Phoebe and Zoe have autism and Zoe also has Type 1 diabetes. After this short glimpse into their lives, I've decided Karen and Lance have to be two of the strongest people I know. Each day's challenges and the weight of responsibility they have on their shoulders for sweet Zoe has to be...exhausting. Is that wrong to say? There's just no way to sugarcoat their world. Yet what you sense the most from their home is the deep love they have for their daughters. It's present in every word, every action. It's present in the true selflessness that few of us have had to experience. It's present in their unwavering commitment, day after day, and in the way they advocate and fight for their girls. Karen and Lance, you are truly amazing. We will continue to pray for your family and I am inspired to learn more about autism and how we can better support you. We love you.
The next morning we woke up back at my parents' house and went to church for Easter. Abby and I took our annual mommy/daughter picture -- this year with snow flurries! Our Florida clothes weren't the best attire.
After church we had a lovely Easter brunch. My parents have a great recipe for slow cooker pork topped with pineapple salsa. We also had salad and Panera rolls (from the grocery store freezer section -- who knew?) with honey butter. And homemade carrot cake for dessert. Abby's favorite part of the meal was the pink strawberry flavored milk from nearby Shatto Dairy. I love the nostalgic glass bottles Shatto milk is sold in.
After lunch we had a little Easter egg hunt.
Abby ignored my requests for a smile.
The eggs were filled with coins and cute little chicks.
Like mother, like daughter.
The next morning we dragged Abby out of bed at 6:00am for our bright and early flight home. I think we can definitely check this trip off as a success. We were able to visit so many fun places, see everyone we wanted to see, and eat our way through the Midwest. Many thanks to all of our family and friends for the wonderful trip home. Our hearts are full!
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