Day 2, 3 - Really What Day is it?

Here are a few more photos of the trip. On Wednesday Rick went out on the Ocean Fishing. They caught 2 Sail Fish and a Rainbow Runner. We had the Rainbow Runner for dinner. Eventhough we don't like to eat fish, it was pretty good. On Thursday went Zip Lining through the Jungle with the group.




Trip is going great. Boys are doing well at home. Miss them like crazy.
Just a few more days. Wedding day tomorrow.
All our love,
Rick, Mandi, Jakob & Ethan

Day 1 in Costa Rica

Today we finally reached Costa Rica. Our adventure began on Saturday with a 3 hour drive to Chicago. Planning to fly out Saturday afternoon, the airlines decided to change our plans. We arrived at the ticket counter to find that our flight had been cancelled. Note not just delayed. It was cancelled. The Gentleman behind the counter said, I can get you out on Thursday but there is nothing before then. At that point really wasn't to fond of this guy. I asked him to help us rebook on other airlines. He gave me a phone number for the airline. He said they probably won't take your call, but you should get through by Monday. WHAT!?!?!?!? I called thinking whatever. The message told us Sorry due to the volume of calls at this time we can not take your call. Please call back later. Click. So here we sit. We found a spot to lay/sit on the floor. After talking with EVERY airline by phone and in person we came up with nothing, even considering driving to Miami to catch a flight. 6 hours later still sitting on the in the airport, we found a great lady at Contenential Airlines. She found tickets for us to depart on Sunday for $1400 each. They were refundable within 24 hours. We booked them. Then we decided enough of this airport. Headed to TGI Fridays for dinner, after not eating yet that day. We found another flight on Mexicana that would leave on Monday but MUCH cheaper. We booked it and finally felt relief of knowing we had a flight. So 3 Hotels and 3 days later and 3 Hours of sleep on Sunday night we finally arrived in Costa Rica. Here are some pictures of our 1st day.
The TiTi Monkeys were up close and friendly.
The Pool was refreshing and fun.
Our flight from San Jose to Quepos was great this morning @ 6:00 AM. 3 Hours of sleep last night and off to airport. This is a field of Palm Trees.
Here is the Marina in Manuel Antonio.
The Pacific Ocean.
We talked with the boys over Skype today. It was great to see them. They are doing so good. We miss them like crazy, but are so thankful for our awesome friends that are taking care of them. Give the boys lots of kisses.
We love you guys. Be home in a week.
All our love,
Rick & Mandi

Ethan ~ Teeth, Walking and LBS.

The 1st Week of February Ethan decided that it was finally time for his 1st tooth The top right one was the 1st to break through. By the end of the week, he also had the top left and the bottom right. He is now working on the bottom left. Nothing like 3 teeth in 1 week.

This past week he decided it was time to walk. He has taken up to about 5 steps at a time. He walks pretty well. My guess is by the time we get home he will be walking a whole lot more.

Ethan also had to go to the doctor this past week for a check up on his ear infection and strep and RSV. The doctor said he was doing great. In a week and 1/2 he also gained almost a pound. He now weighs 19 lbs and 11 ozs. The doctor said it was finally time for him to get out of the baby car seat carrier at 13 months. He still can't face forward, but is too long for the carrier.
Looks like the new car seat when we get home.

The boys are doing great and much healthier.
Can't wait to see them in a week.
Love You Boys,
Daddy & Mommy

Shredding Fun

PLEASE NOTE: Rick wants you to know he was at work while this event went on.
So Jakob loves to shred paper, credit cards and whatever else he can find to shred. The following pictures will show you what happens when mom and the 2 boys are home alone with the shredder.



Clean up was a little work. Fun was had by all, except daddy. He had to help clean up. OOPS.
All our love,
Rick, Mandi, Jakob & Ethan

Ethan's Birthday - Part 2

A few weeks ago we had a birthday party for Ethan with the Brower Family. It was so fun watching him open his presents and eat the cake.




I can't believe Ethan is already 13 months old tomorrow. My baby is growing up so fast.
We love you lots Ethan!
Daddy, Mommy & Jakob