Peiffer Family Blog

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Our family took a trip to Ireland this year and we had a blast. We met up with the Lawler family and took a flight into Dublin where we met family relatives living there in Skerries (seaside suburb of Dublin). We then piled all three families (13 in all) into 2 minibuses and took a road trip to Killarney. We stayed at an old mansion built in the late 1700s. It was a very beautiful house with tall ceilings, quaint fireplaces, and excellent woodwork. The grounds around the house were magnificent and included house stables and huge open grassy field that went for several acres. The house is situated right outside of Killarney in the county of Kerry which is a very beautiful place with mountains and lakes and farms. We went on trips to the local castles, churches, and did some shopping in Killarney. We also went on a road trip which the locals call “The Ring of Kerry” which is a large loop in which a large portion goes along the coastline of western Ireland. The views and the scenery were incredible with lush green foliage, quaint old farms, and a road ride that comes close to a roller coaster ride. After a few days we drove back to see Dublin but got rained out along the way (the highway actually flooded) and were glad to finally make it into Skerries many hours later than expected (I heard it was also Ireland’s national soccer cup that weekend in Dublin). Skerries is a small coastal town with a lot of old sea faring charm. It was an amazing trip that our family will never forget. Here are some pictures from it.

We’ve had such an exciting summer so far!
In June we went to Galesburg for Railroad Days where we visited the children’s museum and zoo. Braden and Brody attended their first baseball game at the Kane County Cougars. We also went the Shedd Aquarium and attended a Ralph’s World concert.

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Braden and Mark went to Camp MacLean in Wisconsin with the YMCA Adventure Guides.  The weather was sunny and in the 60s, perfect for being outdoors. We had loads of fun boating, climbing, hiking, and even did archery. This was Braden’s first time doing archery and being in a row boat. He had a blast! The cabin was clean, spacious, and looked great with its wooden bunk beds. We bunked with four other father-child groups and it was loads of fun and we enjoyed doing stuff together. The campfire was huge and the camp staff came by and entertained the kids with songs. 

Braden also turned 4 this weekend.  He had a great party with family.  Nana made his Little Einstein theme cake.

Braden won the local Jewel Easter coloring contest for his age group; the prize was a Hot Wheels sleeping bag which he loves. It was his first contest ever and we are so proud of him.

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Last weekend we had a blast! Brody got his first buzz cut, the Lawlers came over for some wii play, and Braden attended his friend Avery’s 4th birthday party My Gym.

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We had a great winter.  We took a ride on the Polar Express with Anthony & Chase.  Emily & Rachel came for an overnight stay.   Mark attended a Bears game with Anthony, Ryan, and Bill.  Braden went with Mark to

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In November 2007,

We went to Milwaukee for a family vacation. We visited several museums, the Milwaukee Zoo, attended Train Fest, and toured the Jelly Belly factory and Miller Brewery.

We went to the Garfield Park Conservatory to see the Niki de Saint Phalle exhibit.  Braden and Brody loved climbing on the bright colorful sculptures.  Braden especially enjoyed the koi pond.  Afterwards we went to the zoo to say goodbye to the stingrays, Braden’s favorite creature.  We also visited the butterfly garden and rode the tram. 

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I was recently interviewed by a reporter from the Lisle Sun about a traveling Vietnam War Memorial visiting our town.  The article talks about Uncle Scott. 

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