Family Reunion (the beginning)

So, nearly two years ago the groundwork began being laid for this family adventure. Originally, Mt. Rushmore was pretty central for all of my far-flung family, however lots can change in two years! Between job loss and unexpected relocations, only a few of my siblings could make it so far. Still, reservations and deposits had been made so, Mt. Rushmore it was!

I was a little worried about road tripping with two little ones, but it wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been. (It helped immensely that Moon sleeps ever so much more reliably than his big brother did at that age). Not that I'd wish to do a week long trip again anytime soon, but we all survived and even had some fun along the way!

Now, of course, my branch of the family had to be all crazy and take a *very* round about way to get there. For only a few extra hours, we could see North Dakota too! Visiting all 50 states is on both Hubby's and my bucket list, and when will we be in the Dakotas again?

Turns out, North Dakota is way more interesting on the west side than on the east:
East:

West:

Traveling over 2,400 miles with a baby and a young kid makes for many, many stops. But we took our sweet time. We even visited the Geo Center of the US!

Still, eventually made our way to South Dakota. Behold the Black Hills:

Once we all finally made it to our reunion site, the real fun began:
Mt. Rushmore!

walking the Presidential Trail (dude. all those stairs wearing a 20lb baby is no small feat)

Fire! (and s'mores)

Fabulous skyskapes!

the mountains reflecting the sunset in the distance

Bison!!

Pie!

And a final shot of all the family who could make it this time around:

Too soon, our time drew to a close and we all headed our separate ways. However, we have already begun plotting and planning the next one! Door County or bust!!