Bowling

Father's Day

After the kids and I got home from Virginia we got ready to head back home to celebrate Father's Day. We are fortunate because our families live in the same town. Ryne, my dad, and his dad, had their annual golf game the day before Father's Day. It was great to see both of our dad's. For Ryne's dad we let the kids decorate a hard hat for him. (since they are building a new home) Riley and Sam had a blast. (or course Sam kept trying to eat the markers) Ever since then Riley still says that she wants to color a hat. She is really disappointed when I explain that we don't have the hat anymore :)
For my dad we were able to give him a gift that I was VERY excited about. His grandmother made him and his brother matching quilts when he was a young boy. As a child that quilt is the one that I have fond memories of. I remember snuggling with my dad in the recliner and that old quilt. Well over the years it became tattered and torn. I hadn't seen it for years and he had a "new" blanket. Well, Hannah, Leah, mom, and I had it restored for my dad. He was SO shocked. I am pretty sure I saw a tear in his eye too. It was a great gift and it meant a lot to me, my sisters, and my mom and dad. I wish I had pictures of it, but I didn't take any with my camera.
-Oh and did I mention we bought Ryne a new motorcycle! He loves it!
We had a great Father's Day. I am so blessed to have so many Godly men in my life.
We love you Ryne!!

Virginia

This summer I was so glad that I had the opportunity to spend about a week in Virginia! My cousin was graduating High School, and I had a road trip with G-ma, An Aunt, 2 of her kids along with myself and Riley and Sam. We had a great time. Having lots of people under one roof is one of the best feelings for me. I love staying up late and talking, snacking constantly, enjoying different scenery, and so much more. Abigail looked so beautiful and it just so happened that they coordinated :) While I was there I even got to go out with my cousins. It is so much fun to be able to spend time with them. I have a lot of cousins and there are 7 of us around the same age. (it ranges from 27-like 10ish) We are all growing up and spreading out even further. -Aunt B and Grandmother, thank you so much for such a great trip. I had a blast and always look forward to spending time with you both! Here are a few random pictures from my trip. Hope you enjoy!

Color Your World

This past May my sweet baby sister graduated High School! I was fortunate enough to get to spend almost 2 weeks back home getting ready for, and celebrating, her graduation. (As well as lots of visiting time :) Leah LOVES to color, so it seemed fitting to have a "Color Your World" theme to her party. The house looked great. I loved the food table and all the banners my mom made. The giant crayons and balloons were an added bonus. Leah looked SO beautiful. I have to admit, I shed a tear as I watched her walk across the stage. I know that we have all been growing up, but watching the baby of the family graduate just set it in stone. I am so proud of her. We had lots of family and friends join us in celebrating with her. I was trying to get photos of everything but here are some of the shots from the night. It was GREAT!

Leah, I love you so much and can not express the joy that you bring to my life. I am so glad that I got to celebrate that special day with you. Go color your world! (sorry I am just now blogging about it :)

Growing Up

Miss Riley Anne is growing up! Today has been a day I have been dreading for quite some time. We started potty training. I have attempted times before and quit. (I know that isn't the best way...) But with the Fall semester right around the corner and a small break in our summer travels, I knew today needed to be the day and she has done GREAT! So far we have had no accidents and many successes!

I anticipate the accidents that are sure to come but I am so amazed at how grown up my baby girl is. My neighbor Maryanne took some of these photos the other day. I just couldn't believe how she captured some of Riley's beautiful, playful spirit. I continue to be amazed by her.

Miss Riley,

These days you LOVE to be in charge. Just this afternoon I caught you reading a book to Sam. You even picked out one with a "dogga" (aka dog) because you know that is the only animal Sam says. You love to color, sing, and learn new things. Swimming has become a new favorite and I am looking forward to possibly starting some swim lessons this summer. You always come and give me a hug and a kiss if I look sad and I think your very favorite thing to do ever is "help". I know it has been happening a lot lately, but these past few days I have really started to notice how you are growing up. I love you!

Check out Maryanne's blog and website for more photo's. (give me a call or shoot me an e-mail for the password on her website if you want to look/order)