The Halpin Family: The Big Trip!

Some called us brave, most called us crazy to attempt a trip when Ashton was less than a month old...but we defied the odds and did it! And we're happy to report the trip was a success, hectic and stressful at times but well worth it.

Patrick's grandparents own a century farm in Boone, IA where corn and soybeans have been grown for over 100 years! Sadly, there is no one in the family to take over the Buechler farm and with Grandpa and Grandma in their 80's the time has come to sell the farm. Part of our trip was to attend the corporation meeting where a lot of decisions were made on how to dissolve the corporation. In addition, it was a great excuse for the family to all come together for a mini-reunion. Patrick's sister, Jenni came with her two boys. She hadn't met Parker or Ashton yet so everyone had fun getting caught up!

After a couple days in Boone, we loaded the boys and what felt like to Patrick 30 suitcases into the rental car for our 4 hour journey up to visit the other side of the family in MN. We always have such a great time going "home." I love it because I come from such a small family so its fun to have so many people around. Everyone loved meeting Ashton and seeing how much Parker has grown. We even snuck in a couple trips to the Mall of America where Parker loved the toddler rides and mommy loved the shopping. Every time we visit MN it makes me kind of sad that we live so far away! Patrick has such great family and friends and we always have a blast when we get together!