The trip to Hays was quick but it’s always good to catch up with family and indulge in a few local treats.

[a little patriotic Rock Chalk outside of Lawrence, KS]

[convenience store staples: snoballs and big hunks]

[homemade sweet treats: herzen cookies and peach cobbler cheesecake]

[only in Kansas: wizard of oz themed party]

[baby B on the tracks in downtown Hays]

Marcus’ grandfather, Edward, passed away while I was gone and we attended his funeral yesterday. He was a hard-working man who we will both miss dearly. I thought this photo that I took on our way back to Des Moines was a perfect tribute to a man who spent so many years tending to the land.

The Branstad Family will hit the road again bright and early Thursday morning to attend the National Governor’s Conference in Milwaukee. We have all sorts of fun activities planned – looks like another short work week and busy weekend ahead!