Our 4th of July weekend

We spent the fourth with my mom, Kari, Kirsten, Kyle and Brooklyn at Kirst and Kyle's new place in York.

We took Amtrak out to Lancaster - Brett's an Amtrak pro, but it was my first east coast experience on Amtrak. When we arrived in Lancaster, this is the sign we found. Come on, wasn't that almost 4 years ago!!! Talk about recycling signs. (And I'll have you know that it wasn't strictly enforced since Brett had no trouble bringing his golf clubs, which were over the size limit, on board).
For the 48 hours we were in York, we packed in quite a bit. Of course first things first, we had to meet our almost newest (Becky and Ben's daughter Breann was born the morning of the 3rd) little niece Brooklyn and get in some cuddle time with her. Isn't she precious?
Getting some kisses from mommy!
Brett got some practice, though he has yet to change a baby's diaper. He'll get plenty of opportunities in a few months though!
On the fourth, my mom, Kari, Brett and I went to Gettysburg. We took a 2.5 hour bus tour and then proceeded on to see one of the battle re-enactments. It was pretty awesome. A day packed full of history. Brett was super into it and we have since rented the movie 'Gettysburg.' We've watched (read, he's watched and I've dozed in and out of) a little over two hours of the 4+ hour movie.

Looking over Gettysburg from Little Round Top.
Posing by one of the many cannons.
Anxiously awaiting the start of the re-enactment. Yes, it did rain a little bit, but that didn't stop us.
The battle (which the South won).
We enjoyed a fabulous home-cooked dinner before heading to see the fireworks...we made it just in time. And it was a great show. These little kids were standing behind us and just cracking us up...everyone 23 seconds one of them would say, 'This is the finale.' 'No, this is the finale.' We heard that through the whole show until the actual finale began. They all agreed that 'That was definitely the finale. Until next year.'

Brett got in a round of golf on Saturday (he had so much fun and is now on a golfing kick) while Kyle studied for the bar and the girls spent some quality time together. We took Brooklyn to get a fourth of July picture at the mall. She was wide awake the whole time and did so well. Other than that we just let Kirsten take it easy and we all hung out.

And of course, here are some pictures of Brooklyn. I just couldn't help it.
Saying goodbye. We'll see her in a few weeks for her blessing!
Thanks for a fabulous weekend mom, Kari, Kirst, Kyle and Brooklyn. We had lots of fun!