Holladay Happenings: Easter in Richmond

Beautiful Dogwoods in Bloom

It seemed like we had just put our suitcases back in the basement when it was time to get them out again to get ready for our Easter trip to Richmond! We had not been in Richmond since September '07 so we were definitely overdue for a visit. The only non-stop flight from Minneapolis to Richmond leaves in the evening, arriving at the lovely hour of a little past 11pm. Since minimizing in-air time seemed like the way to go with two small kids, we decided to go for this option. "Maybe the kids will sleep," we told each other hopefully, but who were we kidding? Kai did doze on and off for a little bit towards the end after exhausting himself from being mesmerized by the fasten seat belt sign - and Noah fell asleep just as the wheels of the plane touched down in Richmond. After getting through the aftermath of an abbreviated first night's sleep, the boys quickly made themselves at home at Gram and Dadday's house.

Highlights of the week's activities included: almost daily walks to the playground by a neighborhood church, many Easter egg hunts in the backyard, a picnic in a park, a couple of trips to Maymont (a Richmond park with beautiful landscaping, pathways and trails to walk, and animals to see), the usual playing and reading, and lots of eating of Gram's delicious food. David and Francie visited one evening - so great to see them again - and brought a Thomas train set for Noah which of course was a huge hit and provided many hours of entertainment during our visit. Phil got in a couple of rounds of golf, a rare pleasure for him these days. Ebba and Phil also got to celebrate their 5th wedding anniversary with a fabulous dinner out at Acacia (highly recommended to anyone living in or passing through Richmond). Unfortunately, Kai picked up a nasty fever and cold part way through our visit which he graciously passed on to Ebba. Luckily, the rest of the family was spared. Traveling with young ones is definitely challenging, but it is so important for the boys to get to know their extended family - thanks for a great visit, Gram and Dadday!