Springfield Baby!

We all miss my friend Mary Knox of Knoxville (who is really of Springfield) very much. She and I went to college together and have been great friends ever since. She is one of the sweetest, most genuine people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. She and her boyfriend Colin have a super cute house in Springfield and I have always wanted to go visit. So we did! All 5 of us! I am not sure that Mary and Colin knew exactly what they were getting into when they so graciously welcomed us into their home, but we sure had a great time!

We toured downtown Springfield and Colin enlightened us all about Abe Lincoln and Springfield's rich political history. We checked out the local park, which was awesome. We were fortunate enought to meet many of Colin and Mary's friends, including John Michael who I haven't seen for years. But the highlight of the trip for us all was going to the Illinois State Fair. Food, rides, games, lights, noise...it had everything. I cannot even explain how much fun we all had in Springfield. It was a great family trip and one that I will remember for a long, long time. Thank you so much, Colin and Mary. We love you guys! Here are some photos from the weekend...

Walking around downtown Springfield looking at
"really important buildings"

Matt and Ally in front of some gorgeous doors

Ally showcasing Frank Lloyd Wright's Dana-Thomas House

Walking to the State Fair...unfortunately for Matthew, Ally learned the word "married" while in Springfield and kept saying, "Nacky, we are being married" anytime he did something nice for her! To which he would respond, "Ally, let's never say that word again."

Ahh...the Fair.

I think we spent like $80 trying to win Ally a stuffed animal here. The man seriously made her pop her own balloons...she finally popped one and she picked a dirty pink pig with a missing eye. Money well spent...

Ally gladly gave up her seat in the stoller for her pink monkey, dirty piggy, and Matt's dog.

Last stop, funnel cakes for all! What a night!