adventures in the midwest...

We (my parents and myself) flew to the midwest for a week+ of different family activities. The first place we stopped was Webster, WI to visit my Dad's youngest sister and her family. We hadn't seen them in 5 years and hadn't been to their house in over 10...so it was a nice start to the vacation :)

Me, Sarah, and Michael.

This summer to bi-annual Cole Family Vacation took place at a little lake resort in Northern Wisconsin called Lakewoods Resort. It was definitely different than past vacations. Mainly, because some people didn't come at all, some people came for some of the time, while others were there through the whole trip. Maybe this is the new way it will be?!?! I hope not, but it could be.

Jason and Tony didn't come because they coud not take the time off of work. My Aunt Elaine came for the first few days and then headed back to work. Reed and Rachel came on two different days mid-way through the week because they have other obligations that they did not want to miss.

It was definitely strange for me because I missed Jason and usually Rachel and I hang out on family vacations and do SO much together but this time we only got one 'full' day together and I spent part of that on a small day trip with my Mom. It was just strange...hopefully next time they'll both be able to be there.

Thankfully I have more family than just Jason and Rachel. My cousin's Emily and CC were there and we did our fair share of hanging out! Below are some pictures from the trip...

Emi and I riding the double water bike.

Playing left, center, right which quickly became the family vacation game!

I spent my first 4th of July without Jason :( Sad, in part, because the 4th of July was the first time we said "I love you" 6 years ago...in part, because I just missed him. Though the resort that we stayed at put on quite a show for rinky-dink Wisconsin.

Uncle Foster, Mom, and myself tie-dye shirts...along with about 15 6-9 year olds.

Emi, CC, and myself braved the waters and swam off the pontoon.

Actually Tracy and John both swam with us later :)

If I ever own a pool...I am getting this sign specially made :)

Mom and I took a day trip to Bayfield, WI. Behind us is Lake Superior and some cool sail boats!

We played some BINGO. Foster and Emi won!

2010 Rachel and Annie picture. Pretty sure I"m trying to look taller :)

14 of the 17 of us. Missing Jason, Tony, Elaine.

After family vacation was over we headed back to the twin cities and spent some time with my Oakes side. Some of these cousins I hadn't seen in 5 years! It was fun and I"m glad I stayed those extra days so that I could see them!

All the ladies of the Oakes clan (minus Sarah)...

All in all the trip to the midwest was hot, humid, and pretty hilarious (in good and bad ways).