Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Jackie and Olivia visit!

This past week we hosted Chris' Aunt Jackie, and Cousin Olivia.  We had a wonderful eight days with them taking them to many of our favorite places in and around Geneva.  The girls were once again in heaven with all of the extra attention they had.

They arrived on a Tuesday, unfortunately without their luggage, yet they were still in great spirits and excited to start their vacation.

On Wednesday, it was a beautiful day so we spent the day in Gruyere, Switzerland.  Once again, the little Swiss village did not disappoint our guests.

Gruyere village-


Chocolate factory- 

On Thursday, we headed to Chamonix, France for them to experience Mount Blanc.  They faced their fears and ascended up the mountain.  We then spent the afternoon walking around the village visiting the shops.

Chamonix, France

Beautiful views-

Fun lunch dates!

So proud of them! 

Friday, the girls were both at school, so we went to Annecy, France.  We were lucky that it was market day in the village, which is always a highlight.  We walked around the beautiful lake and then spent time in the village experiencing the European market and visiting the quaint shops.  That afternoon, we picked the girls up from school and went down by Lake Geneva.  It was a perfect afternoon to stroll along the lake, visit old town, and enjoy dinner outside in the main square of Geneva.

Beautiful ladies on Lake Annecy- 

Annecy village-

Jet d'Eau, Lake Geneva 

Eliza so happy with Olivia! 

Chris and Aunt Jackie! 

Saturday, Jackie and Olivia were able to experience a bit of what our life is like in Switzerland.  It was Adalyn's school carnival, which is a very fun event, with food stands from all over the world and rides for kids.  Adalyn really wanted to go, and we thought they would also enjoy it.  We had a great morning at her school.  After that, we headed to Yvoire, France which is another one of our favorite places to visit.  A very unique village along the lake with great shops.  That evening, it was beautiful, so we had a typical American meal and grilled out!

School carnival with new dresses from Aunt Jackie! 

Family time! 

Sunday morning, Jackie, Olivia, and I took a train to... PARIS!  When they had booked their trip, they were interested in visiting Paris, which is a short three hour train ride from here, so we hopped on the train early Sunday morning for a memorable night in Paris!  Unfortunately, the weather was rainy for our entire time in Paris, but we still had a great two days.  The first day we spent visiting the Eiffel Tower, Opera House, Notre- Dame Cathedral, and Mona Lisa at the Louvre.   The second day was devoted to shopping, a great way to brighten a rainy day!

Eiffel Tower

Never too old to ride a carousel! 

Shopping along the famous Avenue des Champs-Elysees 

Sadly, we had to say good-bye to them on Tuesday.  We had a wonderful week spending quality time together creating many more memories.  We are now looking forward to a busy June, with more visitors in two weeks, Chris' high school friends.  Then in 3 weeks, heading home to Minnesota to visit.  We are so excited to see all of our family and friends!