Move to Sweden! First stop London...

On the 18th of August, we left Chicago O'Hare for London Heathrow. It was our last flight as standby passengers through Derek's work, and probably the worst seat arrangement we ever received. Noelle and I had to fly coach regardless, since a child under 7 isn't allowed in first class (employees only). But we were hoping that Derek would get at least business. No such luck. He didn't even get Economy Plus! I think that was a sign to move on from United...

Anyways, we arrived safely (which is what is really important) in London at 6.30 am. Flight went well and Noelle was great as always - not even a cry the whole time (maybe a little when a boy behind us would not stop crying)... We rechecked our luggage for the SAS flight. Then we headed for London, since we had a good fifteen hours layover. We had a little picknick in Hyde Park, strolled past Buckingham Palace and also made a pub start for some nice fish n' chips. We had a lovely day even though I felt like a bag lady...

Noelle waving hello to the queen outside Buckingham Palace! You can also see her six teeth!
Wellington (close to the palace)... it was a hot and sunny day!
"Streets of Philadelphia" no sorry London...
In the park for a little siesta and picknick, and a little stretch of legs for the little girl who was strapped up for quite some time!

Here comes the bag lady!

Last days in the U.S.

The last couple of weeks before leaving for Sweden we spent a lot of time up in Fond du Lac, WI. Noelle went in her pool, we also went to cousin Travis' wedding and just hanging out.
Climbing up the stairs after sitting in the tomato plant dirt...

Mmmm, tomatoes...

or should I say, mmmm dirt...

Standing tall!

Oh no - I got stuck under the chair and I am not sure how to get out!

Cousin Travis' wedding - pretty in pink!

And two pony tails. I am sorry to say this - but I think that Noelle outshined the bride :)

Tiny little bathing suit!

So refreshing in the pool!

Grandma Sara and Aunt Kelly watching Noelle eat!

Noelle in her own little pool

Grandma Sara bought a little babypool for Noelle so she tested it out a few weeks ago when we were up in Fond du Lac. She liked it and crawled around in it. Nice and refreshing in this hot midwest summer weather!

Daddy Derek joined in as well.

She's into doing an O with her mouth now. She does it all the time, too cute!

Chicago Tourists

Derek, Noelle and I did a little outing today and went down town. Had to get some pictures before we leave for Sweden! It was a great day that included some shopping (for all three of us), lots of walking, napping (for one person), and visiting with Uncle Drake and the Godfather Casey. It was a great day!

Noelle with her godfather, Casey (far right), Derek and Uncle Drake.
Noelle checking out the big faces in Grant Park.
Family picture by the bean.
The Bean
Lunch time in Grant Park.
Outside the Consulate of Sweden. Noelle is pointing at the camera!
Too much excitement so Noelle needed a nap!
Hancock Tower in the back.
Walking along Lake Shore Drive. Perfect weather for a little outing! Navy Pier in the background.

Uncle Drew and Kelly's wedding in Annapolis, MD

Noelle is going through the program, making sure all the details are correct!
And bathtime at home!
With Derek and grandpa by the shore (looking at the horsehoe crabs)
Horseshoe crabs mating. The weirdest type of animal that I have seen!
Noelle has started wearing toe rings. Pretty expense taste if I may add...

Loved the table decorations!
Aunt Gini and I. I know there is no baby in this picture, but Gini is so pretty so I had to include it!
Noelle is wacking me on the head with the wedding program.
Family picture since we were all dressed up :)

Midsummer by Belmont Harbour

We celebrated midsummer by Belmont Harbour, organized by our friend Therese and her little boy Viggo. Great fun and we ended up being there from 2 pm to 8 at night! Even Uncle Drake and Gini made it for a quick visit!

One of Noelle's fun time is to sit on Derek's shoulders and holds on to his hair. He has become a bit balder lately... baby grip is no lie...
Pretty flower baby!
Derek took a swim in Lake Michigan. He was so hot and needed to cool off.
Getting ready to dance around the midsummer pole. The babies were watching from the middle. Here Noelle is with Viggo and Emma

9 month check-up

Yesterday, Noelle went for her 9 month check up. She is tall and slender, weighing 17 lbs and 09 oz, which in kg is 7.8 kg. Her height is 29 inches or 74 cm. She has 5 teeth and a helmut of hair. Perfectly healthy!