Friday, July 22, 2011

SUMMER!

We have had such a wonderful, busy summer! I can't even begin to write everything!
My Aunt, Uncle, and 3 of my cousins were here for a few days from Oregon, and we had a wonderful mini-family reunion with my dad's family; those who live in the Phoenix area were down to my cousin's new home in Marana where we all spent a wonderful afternoon. (I, of course, forgot the camera.) It was so good to become reacquainted with everyone, especially the 2nd cousins who now have families of their own. We talked and ate and laughed; there's nothing better than the love of family! I'm looking forward to going to Oregon to visit this next year.
Nathan, Sarah, and their family were here to visit lots of family members, and it was a joy to see them all again. They are on their way to Kansas where Nathan will be stationed for his last year in the Army Dental Corps. They are closing a successful chapter of their lives after 3 years in Germany, and we are very proud of them.
We were happy to finally see Tanner in person! Welcome to the family, little guy! He turned 1 the first week they were in town (and I, of course, forgot the camera again. BROTHER!) He is a sweetheart. We were disappointed that we didn't have more time with him and his mom and dad (there were so many people for them to see), but glad for the time that we did get with the three older grand kids.
The grand kids came over a couple of days after the baby chicks arrived, and seemed to enjoy them.



Auntie Jen was out to visit, and they ate suckers and talked on the swing...good times!

Bev and Lee let the kids ride Dollar Horse and Katie Mule. That was a first for them. It brought back good memories for me because when their dad was roughly their age he had his own horse.


Carter boy seemed to enjoy riding grandpa the best...
...or chilling in the shade with the dogs.



Thanks, Bev and Lee!
We also spent an afternoon at Breakers. The kids had a great time there! The girls and Grandpa spent time in the wave pool while Carter and I vegged on the lounge chairs in the grass.

There were slides...

...and air bubbles...


...a kiddie lagoon (Carter loved the bird and snake spewing water on him)...
...fountains...
...and water that dumped down from a giant gourd...
...keeping them cool from the summer sun. It was so much fun to be able to spend time with them. I miss them and am looking forward to their next visit!
My mind has now turned to my new calling: early morning seminary. I start in three weeks and feel like a fish out of water since I've never gone to seminary myself. Sure hope the saying, "You're never too old to learn" holds true for me!