After 7 months away, we were finally making our first trip back to the States at the end of July to see our family and loved ones and celebrate the wedding of our dear friends. It was great to be back and see so many people we had missed, but it felt different too. Not a bad different, just not quite the same as before. I think Jacob and I are coming to terms with the fact that it may never quite feel the same now. Even though we will be happy to visit again and eventually move back to the US, part of our hearts may forever be in Tarporley and that is a hard feeling to explain.

We stayed quite busy throughout our week back – here are a few highlights:

• Working in Husco’s Waukesha office for a day and saying hi to our old teams

• Misty cuddles (Lexi and Justin’s dog)

• Meiji – my favorite sushi place. Those spicy crab rolls did not disappoint – it was just as I had remembered it!

• The best hugs from my mom and dad and little sister, Molly – it was great to all be together after so long! Thanks for the welcome home sign, Mollis! Not as happy about the fact that you are taller than me now!

• Our MI travelers – Jacob’s mom, dad, and younger sister Natalie travelled from MI to spend time with us while we were in WI and so did his grandparents, Grandma and Pa. We enjoyed our smoked fish picnic, brewery stop, and ice cream together!

• Helping Lexi and Justin pack up their apartment to move and see their new place – so happy Misty has a backyard and love your little library, Lexis!

• Happy knowing Brindle was in good hands with our awesome dog sitters! She has taken over their bean bag chair and loves adventures with them.

• Having dinner with some of our grandparents – We were able to organize a dinner with both sets of my grandparents along with Grandma and Pa and it was special for us to just enjoy time together. Can’t beat those grandparent hugs and high fives! We missed you Grandma Gigi and Grandpa Rick!

• Drinks and dessert on Granny and Gramp’s patio – it was great to relax with so many family members and see all the critters. We loved sitting around the fire, sharing stories, and soaking up time with our loved ones. Thank you to all who stopped out to say hi! And thank you for hosting Granny and Gramps!

• Visiting my brother, Elliot and soon to be sister-in-law at the “Lake House” and enjoying time together and coffee ice cream. We love the new place!

• Celebrating the lovely newlyweds, Michelle and Brock – Michelle, you were the most stunning bride and we are so happy for the two of you!

• Seeing many of our good WI friends and catching up – we love you all!

Thank you everyone for taking time out of your busy lives to see us – it means a lot! To those we didn’t get a chance to see – we will be back in November!

Thanks for reading,

– Amber